Iranian inventions

The Oriental lute is making a comeback in Iran after decades in the shadows as musicians reconnect with an instrument integral to Arab and Turkish musical tradition.

Known as the oud in Arabic, it is commonly called the barbat in Persian, although some would argue the instruments differ slightly.

The Arab world's favorite troubadour Ilham al-Madfai, who last year had to perform in an empty Roman amphitheater and scrub concert dates across Europe and the Gulf, can't wait to get back on stage.