How to Choose the Perfect Oud: A Guide for Beginners and Advanced Musicians
Choosing an oud can be a complex task, especially if you're new to the instrument. Here are some tips to help you find the oud that suits your style and needs:
1. Define your level
If you're a beginner, it might be a good idea to opt for a standard-quality, yet affordable oud. Entry-level ouds offer good value for money without sacrificing tone. For advanced musicians, an oud handcrafted by a renowned luthier is an investment in quality and sonic precision.
2. Types of Ouds
There are several types of ouds depending on the region:
- Arabic Oud : Most commonly used in Middle Eastern countries, with a deep, warm sound.
- Turkish Oud : Slightly smaller with a higher, sharper sound.
- Persian Oud (Barbat) : rarer, with a soft and melodious sound.
3. Manufacturing materials
A good oud is usually made from walnut, cedar, or ebony. The choice of materials greatly influences the instrument's sound. The denser and higher-quality the wood, the richer the resonance. There are several types of oud, each adapted to the specific musical traditions of each region. The Arabic oud is the most common, while the Turkish oud is smaller and produces a higher-pitched sound. The Persian oud (or "barbat") has a different shape and a distinct timbre. The quality of an oud depends on the materials used in its construction: high-end instruments are often made with spruce for the soundboard, ebony for the pegs and fingerboard, and other fine woods for the sound box.
4. Tuning and comfort
Finally, make sure the neck of the oud is comfortable for your hands and that the tuning is stable. A well-tuned oud will make your playing experience much more enjoyable. The oud has between 11 and 13 strings, divided into five or six rows, called "courses." Five of these strings are doubled, and the sixth is a bass string. The first string is thicker than the others and undoubled, producing a lower sound. The oud is played with a plectrum called a "risha," often made of metal, which produces a rich, warm sound when used to pluck the strings.
5. Learn more about oud:
The oud is a traditional Middle Eastern stringed instrument, considered the ancestor of the European lute. It has existed since the second millennium BC and has evolved over time in various forms. It is characterized by a pear-shaped sound box made from light woods such as maple, walnut, or rosewood. Its neck is short and fretless, allowing for the precise playing of intervals characteristic of oriental music.
A central instrument in classical Arabic music, the oud is also used in traditional styles such as Turkish, Persian, and North African music. It is often played solo or accompanied by percussion, violin, or qanun. The oud is descended from the Mesopotamian oud and influenced the music of the Middle East as well as Andalusian Spain after its introduction by Muslims. Over time, it incorporated influences from Persian and Byzantine music.
Today, the oud remains a major symbol of Arabic music and is celebrated at international festivals such as the Festival Arabesques in Montpellier and the Festival de l'Imaginaire in Paris. These events highlight the cultural significance of the oud and its ability to convey profound emotions through its unique sound. A true musical legacy, the oud continues to influence diverse traditions and fascinates with its emotional power, both in solo and ensemble performances.
