Practices and knowledge linked to the Imzad of the Tuareg communities of Algeria, Mali and Niger

UNESCO: Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity - 2013 URL: Description: Imzad music is a characteristic feature of Tuareg populations and is performed by women on a single-stringed bowed instrument known as the Imzad. The musician sits with the instrument on her knees and plays it with a bow. The Imzad provides melodic accompaniment to poetic or popular songs, frequently sung by men on ceremonial occasions in Tuareg camps. It is often performed to drive away evil spirits and alleviate the pain of the sick. The musical knowledge is transmitted orally according to traditional methods of observation and assimilation. Country(ies): Algeria; Mali; Niger © March 2012 by CNRPAH Duration: 00:09:59 - Support: DVD (0089100008)