The purpose of this book and its accompanying CD is to give the student not only a method from which to learn the oud, but also an overview of the history, folklore and origins of this beloved ancient stringed instrument. This book teaches the fundamentals of standard Western music notation in the context of oud playing, and serves as an introduction for absolute beginners as well as those experienced on other instruments. The book covers: types of ouds, tuning the oud, playing position, how to string the oud, music notation, scales, chords, arpeggios, tremolo technique, studies and exercises, songs and rhythms from Armenia and the Middle East, and a CD with 25 tracks for demonstration and play along.