Basra youth launch volunteer music program to revive Iraqi songs and blend global styles

BASRA — A group of young volunteers in Basra has launched a community initiative to teach singing and music in both eastern and western styles, attracting participants from diverse academic fields including medicine, engineering, and pharmacy. The program aims to revive forgotten Iraqi songs and present traditional and foreign music through organized training and group performances.

Asil Karim, founder of the choir team, told 964media the idea came from observing that “many young people want to learn music and singing,” even though their studies have nothing to do with the arts. “Everyone loves the arts,” he said.

Karim explained that none of the participants are professional musicians. “We created this opportunity for youth from outside the fine arts, and we’ve seen great enthusiasm,” he said. He added that song selection is deliberate, focusing on neglected Iraqi pieces that deserve renewed attention.

The initiative is entirely self-funded, with all participants volunteering their time and resources.

Trainee Yaqeen Ali said she joined to rekindle her passion for singing and found a group of people “from different ages and backgrounds” eager to learn together. She said the training focuses on vocal control and blending Arabic and foreign musical elements.

Another participant, Abdullah Abdulwahid, said, “We are here to learn. We have talent, even if we’re not students of fine arts.”