The people of the north in the Kingdom, especially those from the desert, have a deep connection with the Rababah. They have loved this stringed instrument since ancient times, finding comfort in its sound when they relax after a long day of work for their livelihood and herding livestock in the pastures. The Rababah has become a companion for joyous moments, whether during desert trips or celebrations, due to its association with poetry and folk songs.
The Rababah has a long history with the Arabs; they have sung its praises for a long time, reciting their finest war, descriptive, and romantic poetry. According to legends, the Rababah is considered the original instrument from which other stringed musical instruments branched out, dating back to before Christ. Like other musical instruments, there are numerous ways to play it, varying between styles such as the Hijani, Mas'hub, Hilali, and Samari, which differ according to the region or country.
Due to the Arabs' love for this instrument, it has accompanied them in their travels until it reached Al-Andalus after the Islamic conquests, which in turn introduced it to Europe, where it spread in various forms and names. A "WAS" correspondent in the Al-Jawf region highlighted this instrument through an interview with a well-known local and internationally recognized enthusiast, the player A'id bin Abdul Karim Al-Qazih, who began his journey with the Rababah in 1421. He has continued his relationship and passion for this instrument for over 20 years, having loved it since childhood. He learned to play it without anyone’s help and practiced for long hours daily until he mastered playing it in various ways.
Al-Qazih explained that the Rababah is made from wood, typically taking on a geometric shape, with a rectangle being its most common form, onto which animal skin is stretched, whether from sheep or cattle. A part called the "Karab" is used to tighten the string above, and the "Sibib" is made from horse tail hair, which is the playing string positioned above the stretched skin. A small piece of wood known as "Al-Jahsh" interrupts this central string. The player uses a bow made from cane that is tightened with the Sibib, producing sound when it rubs against the string over the stretched skin.
He clarified that the Rababah has not become obsolete even today, as it is still played and enjoyed during certain occasions and gatherings among groups accustomed to outdoor excursions and camping. The melodies of the Rababah continue to resonate, delighting the people of the desert in their gatherings and camps.
