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The Moroccan rabab, also known as the rebab or rebab el sharki, is a traditional stringed instrument commonly used in the music of Morocco and other parts of the Maghreb region. The instrument has a rich cultural heritage and is an essential part of Moroccan musical traditions.

Key Features of the Moroccan Rabab:

Construction:

• Body: The rabab typically has a rounded or pear-shaped wooden body, often made from a single piece of wood. The body is covered with animal skin, usually goat or sheep, which acts as a resonator.
• Neck: It has a long, slender neck without frets.
• Strings: The rabab usually has two or three strings made from gut or, more commonly in modern versions, nylon or metal. The strings are tuned to produce a range of pitches.

Playing Technique:

• The rabab is played with a bow, similar to a violin. The musician holds the instrument vertically, with the body resting on the knee or between the knees, and uses the bow to produce sound by drawing it across the strings.
• The player uses their fingers to stop the strings and change the pitch, allowing for a range of notes and melodies.

Sound:

• The rabab produces a distinctive, rich, and resonant sound. Its tone is often described as warm and expressive, making it suitable for both melodic and rhythmic passages.

Cultural Significance:

• The rabab is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture and is often used in traditional music genres such as Andalusian classical music, Berber music, and Gnawa music. It is also played at various cultural and religious events, including weddings and festivals.
• The instrument is sometimes referred to as the ""grandfather of the violin"" due to its historical influence on the development of stringed instruments in Europe and the Middle East.

The Moroccan rabab is a testament to the rich musical traditions of the region and continues to be an important instrument in both traditional and contemporary Moroccan music.