Yahoo TV

This ancient Yemeni instrument is called a ‘Qanbus’

The traditional lute is carved from of a single piece of wood

Its popularity declined in Yemen during the early 20th century

Now, a UNESCO-supported project is reviving the craft

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) DIRECTOR OF THE YEMENI HOUSE FOR MUSIC AND ARTS, FUAD AL-SHARJABI, SAYING:"The project is called 'Back to Surface' and is divided into two parts. The first part is to re-manufacture this instrument with the same craftsmanship and the same old form inherited thousands of years ago. The second part is to teach young people to play this instrument and also to sing with the same old Yemeni technique that's unique to this instrument. We are keen to bring back this instrument to the Yemeni culture, to the Arab culture, and to the world, God willing."