One of the most important instruments of the Middle East, the Oud is a distinctive predecessor to the Lute family and uses a microtonal vocabulary. The fingerboard is fretless, and the deep bowl-backed body supports eleven strings.This comprehensive tutorial provides all the theory and technique you need to get started with this fascinating instrument. Alongside learning how to hold the Oud and play its strings, you will also discover Armenian and Middle Eastern rhythms and scales, as well as 9techniques such as tremolo picking.The lessons are supported with the accompanying CD of backing tracks and demonstrations.