In his recordings and live performances, Saidawi often demonstrates the "Dialogue of the Reed." He utilizes the breath as a percussive element, using the drone of the Zurna to create a rhythmic canvas upon which he paints rapid, staccato motifs. This technique is particularly evident in his renditions of classic folk standards, where he deconstructs the melody and
Fayez Saidawi is a virtuoso musician of Syrian origin, widely regarded as one of the most proficient zurna players of the 21st century. Born into a family where music was the language of daily life, Saidawi did not simply learn the zurna; he internalized it. While the zurna exists in various forms across Turkey, Armenia, Iran, and the Arab world, Saidawi specifically gravitated toward the due to its dynamic range, technical demands, and powerful projection.
The Zurna itself is a precursor to the modern oboe, featuring a conical bore and a flared bell typically carved from seasoned apricot or plum wood. It requires a specific technique known as circular breathing, allowing the player to maintain a continuous, unwavering drone or melody for extended periods. Fayez Saidawi’s mastery of this breath control is a hallmark of his style, enabling him to perform complex improvisations (taksims) that exhibit both incredible power and delicate ornamentation.