Charbel Rouhana is releasing a new Oud method this month. This is great news for Oud learners worldwide because… he is having it written in dual languages: Arabic and English.
I am looking forward to purchasing my own copy as it will cover at least five different levels of Oud and it will be a great resource to use in my own private lessons. When I get more information on how to purchase it I will let you know.
I discussed his method with him at the Arabic Music Retreat, and he said he has already created an Oud method previously to this, but the new one is a re-evaluation of his method. He has changed his approach along the way to take into account the traditional Oud playing method as well as the modern tradition which is using the high F string, etc.
Even a great musician like Charbel Rouhana re-evaluates his work. This is important for all artists to remember. You continuously keep learning, improving and sometimes you change the way you are doing things.
My speculation is that his work in Lebanon is helping further the standard of Oud playing in the conservatory there as he mentioned that they are eventually aiming to have 8 levels of Oud. His new method goes up to level 5. This is similar to how there are levels of Piano in Western conservatories of music.
Unraveling a Taqsim
The taqsim video I have for you today starts off in Jiharkah and makes it’s way all over the place, and finally back to Jiharkah again. The captions makes it easy to analyze and track where it’s going.
I am more happy with this taqsim than the one last week. Anyway, you tell me what you think. Please leave some comments on YouTube.
