Beginners
Learn Oud from Scratch
Never touched an oud? This is a calm, step-by-step path from your first note to your first maqam and simple pieces, with live lessons that correct you as you go.
A beginner path, step by step
- Foundations: holding the oud and the plectrum, clean single notes.
- Left hand: finding notes on a fretless neck and playing in tune.
- First scale: Maqam Rast or Nahawand with simple exercises.
- First pieces: short melodies and songs you recognise.
- Listening: quarter tones and the character of each maqam.
Why live lessons help beginners
The first months shape your habits. A teacher who sees your hands can stop tension, poor posture and out-of-tune notes before they become hard to undo. Videos can support practice, but they cannot correct you.
How long does it take?
It depends on regular practice. Read how long it takes to learn oud and how to start as an adult.
Prices
Prices are in UAE dirhams: a single 40-minute lesson is AED 300 and the 8-lesson course is AED 2,000. If you pay from abroad, your bank converts the amount to your currency. Start with a paid trial lesson.
Related pages
FAQ
Can an adult learn oud from scratch?
Yes. Many students start as adults. Regular, short practice matters more than age.
Do I need to read music?
No. Notation can be introduced gradually, but you can start by ear and by imitation.
Online or in person for a beginner?
Both work. Online needs a good camera angle showing both hands; in person is available in Dubai.
Is the first lesson free?
No. The trial lesson is paid (AED 300).