Bait Al Oud

Tune in to musical tradition.

Dedicated to the preservation and craft of one of the world’s oldest stringed instruments, Bait Al Oud offers a wonderfully warm reception to newcomers and seasoned lovers of ancient Arabic music alike. Established by oud master Naseer Shamma, the centre aims to both retain the musical heritage of the instrument and take it forward as part of a new generation of music.

The beautiful space teaches the oud to musicians of various ages and abilities as well as hosting free performances by students and visiting musicians. The complex also houses a dedicated workshop where ouds are made from scratch. Those interested can request a full tour that walks you through the production process, from the type of wood selected to the techniques used to carve and tune. The museum’s craftsmen are also developing new instruments, including an oud double bass.