Kurdish folk music
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Kurdish folk music (Kurdish: میوزیکی فۆلکلۆری کوردی, romanized: Mîwzîkî folkilorî Kurdî or مۆسیقای فۆلکلۆر) is a musical tradition associated with the Kurdish people, encompassing a variety of regional styles, instruments, and lyrical themes. It is often transmitted orally and reflects aspects of Kurdish culture and history.
The earliest documented study of Kurdish folk music was conducted by the Armenian priest and composer Komitas in 1903, when he published Chansons Kurdes, a collection of twelve Kurdish melodies he collected during his travels.
Kurdish folk music plays an important role in preserving oral tradition and expressing collective identity. Traditionally performed at social gatherings such as weddings, festivals, and Newroz celebrations. Distinct styles and instruments vary by region, reflecting the geography and linguistic diversity of Kurdish communities.
Musical styles often differ not only between regions but also from one village to another, reflecting the localized character and oral transmission of Kurdish folk traditions.