Mosul Maqam

The Mosul Maqam project involves researchers collecting stories from Maqam practitioners and guardians in Mosul while establishing a digital repository for the Mosuli Maqam to preserve it for future generations. Maqam is a system of melodic modes central to the shared musical culture of the MENA region and Central Asia. Iraqi Maqam is one of the oldest and most celebrated forms, recognized on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2008. The people of Mosul share a deep connection with Maqam, reflecting the city's cultural crossroads and their ability to preserve centuries-old social values, customs, and artistic traditions.

Additionally, the project explores innovative ways to create new art forms that engage younger audiences. It is funded by the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, in partnership with DCMS, and is led by IAIS at the University of Exeter in collaboration with Kashkul at the American University of Iraq-Sulaimani (AUIS).