Wikipedia
Firqa (, plural: فرق; firaq) is a musical ensemble or orchestra in Middle Eastern music. While a similar ensemble called takht typically comprised between two and five musicians, the firqa generally numbers eight or more.12
Since the firqa incorporates a substantial amount of western instruments including the violin and piano accordion, in 1940s Egypt the popularity of this expanded ensemble caused it to displace the takht as the ensemble of choice. From there the firqa became popular throughout the Arabic world including Eastern and Northern Africa.
Beginning in the 1930s, the Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum was accompanied by a firqa.
Firqa refers to local militia units in Oman. The British were known for utilising Firqa during their occupation there, converting former enemies into pro-British militia to aid them in their counter-insurgency.
Firqa continued at least until recent times; as recently as 1990 the Omani government was issuing payments of 120-140 rials per month. This payment was both to maintain a pro-government paramilitary force, as well as to enable nomadic Omanis to continue living in their traditional areas.