Award-winning artist

Renowned Iraqi oud player Sami Naseem passes away after long illness

2024-09-25 | 14:12

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Artists Syndicate announced on Wednesday the death of renowned musician Sami Naseem following a prolonged battle with illness.

Naseem, a highly respected oud player, was the founder and leader of the Baghdad Oud Ensemble, established in 2013, and the director of the Iraqi Oud House. He was also an elected member of the Central Council of the Iraqi Artists Syndicate during its current term.

Naseem was widely recognized for his skill with the oud, a traditional stringed instrument used primarily in Middle Eastern music. The oud, known for its distinctive pear-shaped body and short neck, is considered the precursor to the European lute.

Throughout his career, Naseem contributed significantly to Iraqi music, earning the State Innovation Award in both 1997 and 2009.

His compositions, such as “Sufi Night” and “Monologues with the Night,” garnered widespread acclaim and were central to his 2009 Innovation Award.

Naseem also performed at numerous international festivals, where his work brought global recognition to Iraqi music.

In a statement, the Iraqi Artists Syndicate expressed their sorrow over Naseem’s passing: “With deep sadness and sorrow, the Iraqi Artists Syndicate mourns the loss of the great artist Sami Naseem, a member of the Central Council of the Syndicate, who passed away today after a prolonged illness. We ask God Almighty to bless him with His vast mercy and to grant his family, loved ones, and colleagues patience and solace. To God we belong, and to Him we return.”