Sabah Fakhri
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Sabah Fakhri (born 1933): is a renowned and venerated singer from Aleppo in northern Syria.
He modified and popularized the then-fading form of traditional Arabic music, Muwashahat and Koodood. He is well known for his powerful and beautiful voice, impeccable execution of Maqamat and harmony, as well as his charismatic performances. To many music admirers around the world, he represents the epitome and essence of authentic Tarab.
He enrolled into the Academy of Arabic Music of Aleppo then to the Academy of Damascus, from which he graduated in 1948. Then in Cairo, Egypt, he studied under the music masters of that time, and since then he started performing concerts in Syria. He soon became famous all over the Arab World. He also performed many concerts in Europe and the Americas. His name is enshrined in the Guinness Book of Records for his prowess in Caracas, where he sang for 10 hours without a pause.
He was a member of the Syrian parliament for a period of time as a representative of artists.
Sabah Fakhri is one of the best Syrian singers ever, and has been considered as the top of the singing pyramid there.
He has always criticized modern music, even classicals with modern instruments. He wasn't happy either with some of the music Mohammed Abdel Wahab and Farid Al Attrach composed because of that same reason.
Fakhri was awarded the Syrian Order of Merit of Excellent Degree by President Bashar al-Assad in recognition of his achievements in serving and his role in reviving the artistic heritage in Syria.[1]