Zeryab (The Baghdadian Singer)

He is Abu AL-Hassen Ben Naffeh, born in Iraq. He was supporter to Abasian caliph Harron AL-Rasheed; his name means (gold water) or (black bird); he was good student studied art, his first teacher was Ibrahem AL-Mousali.

His teacher grudged on him and accused him in madness so he left Iraq and went to Andalus with his family enter Andalus through Tarik Mountain in 206 A.H. Zeryab the Baghdadian Andalusian singer and music scientist in Europe gave many artist gifts which came from Baghdaden genius.

His most important achievements according to music and singing: -

1. Add the fifth chord to the lute and made it red.

2. Left behind him musician heritage about ten thousands tune.

3. Bring to Andalus many of Arabian singing instruments and developed it like dulcimer and lute.

4. Form the tune by using Iraqi Maqaam in place of tunes that was followed in the past.

Translated by: Haifa? Hashem