The oud is one of the most iconic instruments in Middle Eastern music, known for its unique shape and deep, rich tones. Often regarded as the ancestor of the modern guitar, the oud has played a central role in the musical traditions of the Arab world, Turkey, Iran, and beyond. In this comprehensive oud guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about the oud—from its history and types to how to play it and where to buy one.
What is an Oud Instrument?
The oud is a stringed instrument with a pear-shaped body, traditionally made from high-quality wood. It typically has 11 strings arranged in five pairs, with a single low bass string, though some ouds may have 12 or 13 strings depending on regional variations. What makes the oud distinct from modern stringed instruments is its fretless neck, which allows for a wide range of tonal expression and microtones, an essential feature in Middle Eastern music.
The name “oud” comes from the Arabic word for wood, and its design has evolved over centuries to suit various musical traditions. The instrument is a key player in Arabic, Turkish, Persian, and North African music, offering a warm, mellow sound that can be both melodic and rhythmic. Its deep resonance and emotive quality make it a favorite for solo performances and ensemble pieces alike.
The History and Origins of the Oud
The history of the oud stretches back thousands of years, with its earliest roots believed to be in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. The oud is often linked to the barbat, a similar instrument from Persia, and is considered the predecessor to European lute instruments that appeared later in history.
By the 7th century, the oud had become a staple in the Arab world. Islamic scholars and musicians, particularly in the Umayyad and Abbasid periods, refined the instrument and spread it throughout the Middle East and North Africa. Over time, the oud influenced a wide range of musical traditions, from Andalusian music in Spain to Ottoman classical music in Turkey.
As oud instruments traveled through different regions, variations in construction and tuning emerged. For example, Arabic ouds generally have a larger body and produce a deeper sound, while Turkish ouds are smaller and tuned higher for a sharper tone. Despite these differences, the oud’s core design and function have remained largely unchanged, making it one of the most enduring musical instruments in history.
Types of Oud Instruments
Understanding the types of oud is key to choosing the right instrument for your musical style. The main variations of the oud can be grouped based on regional influences, each offering its own distinct sound and playability.
1. Arabic Oud
The Arabic oud is the most widely used type and is known for its deep, resonant sound. It has a larger body and longer neck compared to other types, which contributes to its rich tonal quality. This oud is popular in countries like Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria. It is traditionally tuned to C-F-A-D-G-C, which allows for a wide range of expression in classical Arabic music.
2. Turkish Oud
The Turkish oud is smaller and lighter than its Arabic counterpart, producing a brighter and more vibrant sound. It is commonly tuned higher, typically in D-G-B-E-A-D, making it ideal for fast, intricate playing styles. The Turkish oud is primarily used in Turkish classical and folk music, where its sharper tone enhances the dynamic range of compositions.
3. Syrian Oud
The Syrian oud is considered a subset of the Arabic oud but is known for its superior craftsmanship. Syrian ouds are often handcrafted from high-quality woods like walnut and rosewood, giving them a deep, balanced tone. These ouds are commonly used in traditional Syrian and Levantine music.
4. Iraqi Oud
The Iraqi oud is distinguished by its floating bridge design, which increases the instrument’s resonance and sustain. This type of oud is favored by players of Iraqi maqam music. The sound is a blend of brightness and depth, offering a unique tonal experience compared to other ouds.
5. Electric Oud
The electric oud is a modern variation designed for amplified performances. It retains the traditional shape of the oud but features built-in pickups that allow the sound to be amplified through speakers. This type is popular among musicians who play fusion genres, blending traditional oud sounds with modern musical elements like rock or jazz.
How to Play the Oud
Learning to play the oud involves mastering several key techniques, many of which are unique to this instrument. Unlike guitars or lutes, the oud’s fretless neck requires precise finger placement and a good ear for tuning.
1. Holding the Oud
The first step to playing the oud is learning how to hold it properly. Sit on a chair with the back of the oud resting against your leg. Your right hand (if you’re right-handed) will pluck the strings, while your left hand will move along the neck to change the pitch.
2. Plucking the Strings
Oud players typically use a plectrum called a risha or mizrab to pluck the strings. The risha is held between the thumb and index finger, and the motion should be smooth and fluid. Unlike guitars, which often rely on strumming, the oud is played using a combination of plucking and individual string picking to produce intricate melodies and rhythms.
3. Basic Tuning and Scales
To start playing melodies, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with basic oud tuning and scales. As mentioned earlier, the Arabic oud is often tuned C-F-A-D-G-C, and practicing scales within this tuning will help you get a feel for the instrument’s range. Common Middle Eastern maqamat (scales) used in oud playing include Maqam Rast, Maqam Bayati, and Maqam Hijaz, each offering distinct tonal qualities.
4. Developing Finger Techniques
Since the oud lacks frets, finger positioning is crucial. Unlike guitar, where frets guide finger placement, the oud requires players to develop a good sense of intonation by ear. Finger exercises and scale practice are essential for developing the dexterity and precision needed to play the oud well.
5. Chords and Rhythm
Although the oud is typically used for melodic playing, it can also provide rhythm and harmony in ensemble settings. Learning how to play chords and rhythmic patterns will add depth to your playing and allow you to accompany other musicians.
Where to Buy an Oud Instrument
When it comes to buying an oud, it’s important to find a reliable source that offers high-quality instruments. While many music stores sell ouds, not all of them provide instruments crafted by skilled luthiers. For those looking to purchase an authentic and well-made oud, Sala Müzik is an excellent option. They offer a wide variety of ouds, including Arabic, Turkish, and electric models, suitable for both beginners and professionals.
1. Sala Müzik – A Trusted Source
Sala Müzik is a highly reputable music store specializing in traditional instruments, including the oud. They offer a vast selection of ouds crafted by expert luthiers, ensuring that each instrument is of the highest quality. Whether you’re looking for an Arabic oud with deep tones or a Turkish oud with a sharper sound, Sala Müzik has a model to suit your needs.
2. Global Shipping
One of the biggest advantages of purchasing from Sala Müzik is their global shipping service. No matter where you are in the world, you can have an authentic oud delivered to your doorstep. This is especially convenient for musicians who may not have access to specialized music stores in their local area.
3. Customization and Support
In addition to selling high-quality instruments, Sala Müzik offers customization options to suit your specific preferences. Whether you need a particular wood type or specific tuning, their team can help you find or customize the perfect oud. Moreover, they provide excellent customer support to guide you through the selection and purchasing process.
Conclusion
The oud is a rich and storied instrument that has played a vital role in the musical traditions of the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, understanding the types of oud, their history, and how to play them is key to appreciating this ancient instrument. If you’re looking to purchase an oud, Sala Müzik offers a wide range of high-quality instruments with worldwide shipping, making it easier than ever to bring the sound of the oud into your home.
