JEDDAH: The Jeddah Book Fair buzzed with energy recently as Iraqi musician and renowned oud player Naseer Shamma captivated attendees with a lecture on echoic memory. 

The discussion titled “Music Stylistically” was led by moderator Bader Al-Hamoud. 

Shamma explored how climate and environment influence musical expression, noting differences between coastal and mountainous music.

He explained how geography, architecture, and economic factors shape a community’s musical identity and heritage. 

Shamma said: “Just as our senses possess memory and require care to maintain their function, music demands a period of maturation, much like the cycle of life.” 

Some of his compositions have taken years to perfect before being shared. He believes music that resonates for two decades achieves a lasting impact.

Shamma also announced a project to train instructors to teach at schools.

The seminar highlighted the therapeutic power of music. Shamma said that music can accelerate wound healing by up to 30 percent. 

Music therapy has become a recognized academic field, he added.

Focusing on children, Shamma emphasized music’s role in intellectual growth and counteracting the effects of excessive screen time. 

He said music has become a cornerstone of early childhood education in many parts of the world.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the fair runs until Dec. 21 and features over 450 pavilions, with the participation of over 1,000 publishing houses and agencies from 22 countries. 

Entry to the fair is free daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, except on Fridays when it opens from 2 p.m. until midnight.