In December 2021, Nizar received his PhD in artistic research at Leiden University Academy for Creative and Performing Arts. His thesis, ‘Ūd Taqsīm as a Model of Pre-Composition, includes a number of new compositions for solo ud inspired by the improvisations of the great Egyptian ud players Muhmmad al-Qasabji and Riyad al-Sunbati. These pieces include some of the favourable works among Nizar's audience such as Safsaf Abyad (White Willow) and Mufradat Nahawand.
Find out more about Nizar's PhD project here: