Ara Topouzian

The Qanun (also spelled Kanun) is a traditional Middle Eastern string instrument and musical style characterized by its trapezoidal box zither shape and unique melodramatic, ethereal sound. It is a central instrument in Arabic, Turkish, and Armenian classical music (Maqam), known for its ability to produce microtones via small levers called 'mandals'. The music is typically monophonic or heterophonic, featuring intricate melodic lines, rapid tremolos, and sweeping glissandos. It is often played solo (Taksim) or as the leader of a traditional ensemble (Takht), providing both percussive attack and sustained resonance.