Egyptian Yasmin al-Harbi is one of a handful of musicians who can skillfully play the al-hareb, an instrument whose origins go back to the days of the Pharaohs, and which was later developed in Europe.
According to the Egyptian daily Al-Ahram al-Arabi, singer Mohammed Munir has decided to work with al-Harbi. Their first joint concert is scheduled for the Opera House next month. Munir will sing in the concert without his customary backup musicians, and al-Harbi will provide the accompaniment on her ancient instrument.
Al-Harbi, who is still enrolled at the Higher Institute for Music, is the only student there with a scholarship from UNESCO to nurture her talent.
The high price of al-hareb, which starts at 70,000 pounds, has not deterred al-Harbi from buying it in installments through the Internet, according to Al-Ahram al-Arabi -- Albawaba.com
