NoahD - 12-26-2016 at 11:53 PM
Hi everyone!
After wanting to learn for some time, I finally took the plunge and bought my first oud. I was able to find a near-new oud on craigslist that was
purchased from Maurice Oud Shop (this one specifically: http://www.mauriceoudshop.com/apprentice-oud-136/).
Overall it's still in great shape, but I wanted to get some general advice from more seasoned players on a couple things: First, I've had a few people
say it's a good idea to have my oud re-strung, particularly if the prior owner never did it. Also, I noticed that there appears to be a grain of sand
or some other small item inside the instrument. It's not super noticeable but I do hear it rattling around when I move the instrument. Any advice on
getting it out?
I've already found an instructor who I'm going to start taking lessons from in the New Year, but I'd love to hear any tips for getting my oud into
playing shape before then!
Thanks,
Noah
Brian Prunka - 12-28-2016 at 10:51 AM
While it may seem odd coming from me (since I sell strings), the strings on it are probably fine for now and I would recommend consulting with your
teacher before changing the strings. Because there are a few different tuning approaches, you want to make sure you choose something compatible with
your teacher's tuning.
You could just ask your teacher what tuning you should use with him, and send me an email through my contact page and I can get you set up with the right strings.
It seems like a very nice oud. Measure the vibrating string length from the nut to the bridge in order to choose the best strings.