Oud
The oud is the grandfather of the guitar, with its pear-shaped body and hauntingly beautiful sound that defines Middle Eastern music. This 11-stringed instrument has no frets, allowing for the microtonal scales essential to Arabic music.
Instrument Image
Overview
The oud is the grandfather of the guitar, with its pear-shaped body and hauntingly beautiful sound that defines Middle Eastern music. This 11-stringed instrument has no frets, allowing for the microtonal scales essential to Arabic music.
Cultural Context
Central to Arabic classical music, representing the soul of Middle Eastern musical tradition
Famous Players
Fun Fact
The word 'lute' comes from the Arabic 'al-oud', meaning 'the wood'.
Quick Facts
Origin
Middle East
Era
Central to Arabic classical music, representing the soul of Middle Eastern musical tradition
Difficulty
Advanced
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