Today’s Google Doodle is an extraordinary tribute to the accomplished Sudanese composer and oud player Asma Hamza. Asma was one of the victors of the prestigious Laylat AlQadr AlKubra music competition in Sudan on this date in 1997. This victory was a turning point in her career, catapulting her to the forefront of a traditionally male-dominated field.
Asma Hamza, who was born in 1932, developed an affinity for music during her formative years and aspired to become a singer. Ingeniously, she switched from singing to whistling melodies due to the limitations of her vocal organs. Asma’s father, captivated by her harmonious whistling and recognizing her extraordinary talent, procured an oud, an ancient stringed instrument resembling a lute but with a thinner neck and no frets, so she could embark on her musical voyage.
Asma Hamza taught herself to play intricate oud compositions, relying solely on her exceptional auditory memory and inherent musical talent, through unwavering determination. While her father fervently supported her musical endeavors from the start, she encountered societal opposition because it was considered socially unacceptable for women to create music during that era. Asma composed her first work in secret, reflecting the difficult path she had to traverse.
Asma Hamza’s talent flourished as she grew older, allowing her to compose compositions for numerous talented Arab musicians. Her extraordinary compositions and unparalleled oud abilities made her one of the first female composers in Sudan. In addition, she assiduously honed her oud-playing skills, eventually becoming one of the first women to receive formal oud-playing training in 1946.
Asma Hamza’s indomitable spirit and extraordinary contributions to the world of music have not only left an indelible impact on Sudanese musical history, but have also broken down gender barriers, paving the way for women in the industry. Her unwavering commitment to her craft and her pursuit of a more equitable world for women serve as evidence of her enduring legacy.
Today, we celebrate the musical prowess of Asma Hamza and her tireless efforts to promote gender equality through the captivating medium of music. Her story serves as an example of the transformative power of perseverance and ardor for aspiring musicians.
