THE SCIENTIFIC AND PERFORMANCE FOUNDATIONS OF THE NAY INSTRUMENT: IN THE LIGHT OF AL-FARABI’S TEACHINGS

Abstract

This article presents a scientific analysis of the musical art of ancient Central Asia and the symbolic role of the nay (reed flute) in expressing the harmony between humans and nature. Drawing upon Abu Nasr al-Farabi’s “Kitab al-Musiqa al-Kabir” (The Great Book of Music), it explores the acoustic, physiological, and aesthetic characteristics of the nay sound, emphasizing its place within the structure of musical thought. The study also examines the theoretical and practical aspects of developing auditory skills, intonation accuracy, timbral sensitivity, and rhythmic perception in nay performance. Moreover, it links al-Farabi’s philosophical and musical concepts to contemporary nay performance practice, scientifically substantiating their role in enhancing musical perception and aesthetic consciousness.