Al-Qudoud al-Halabiyah on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List: A Historical and Analytical Study

Abstract

Given the significance of Al-Qudud Al-Halabiyah as a crucial element of the national cultural heritage and its essential role in the overall cultural legacy and Syrian musical heritage, especially as part of the effort to strengthen the sense of belonging and adherence to ancestral traditions, the inclusion of Al-Qudud Al-Halab in UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage is a momentous event on cultural, artistic, social, and human levels. This prompted us to conduct a study that illustrates this importance. The study adopts a descriptive (analytical) and historical approach. In this context, we aim to understand the cultural and scientific role of Al-Qudud Al-Halabby providing a brief historical overview, discussing their types and forms, presenting some examples, analyzing them, and highlighting their melodic, rhythmic, and modal characteristics. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of historical and cultural interaction and cross-fertilization in shaping the current understanding of Al-Qudud Al-Halab. The study concluds by emphasizing their role as a crucial element of the national heritage, serving as a cultural, artistic, and historical symbol. Finally, the study presents some recommendations on how to preserve, protect, and revive this important heritage.