When beginning on the oud, and any instrument for that matter, it is very
helpful to practice the major scale in every key. This is because this
scale has regular intervals, and by practicing it up and down the neck, in
various keys, you will become much more familiar with your instrument.
If you are using the first Turkish
tuning start
practicing E major, from the third string (E). Perhaps you could divide
your practice time between several keys. Start with E major, then move
down to D major, C major, B major, A major, G major, F major, and to E
major again. Explore all the octaves, use different fingering
combinations. Be able to identify immediately any note that you play. In
other words, KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT.
How can you learn to identify the notes you play quickly? Try an
exercise where as you slowly play the scale, you sing aloud the name of
each note as you play it. It is a big help.
Make sure you practice the scale up and down each time (ascending and
descending). Remember that getting to know your instrument well is like
any relationship, it takes time.
Some examples:
Note: The low D in this exercise cannot be played with the first Turkish tuning . The 6th string would have to be tuned down to D.
