OUD WARISAN SENI DARI TIMUR TENGAH: The First Malay Reference on the Oud

by Dr. Raja Zulkarnain

In 2013, I released a pioneering book titled Oud Warisan Seni dari Timur Tengah (Oud: The Middle Eastern Art Heritage), published by Institut Terjemahan dan Buku Malaysia (ITBM). This publication marked a significant milestone in the Malaysian literary and musical landscape, as it was the first book written in Malay to focus exclusively on the oud, a revered musical instrument deeply rooted in Middle Eastern culture and heritage.

The motivation behind this book was to address the glaring absence of written references about the oud in Malaysia. At the time, information about the instrument was largely inaccessible to local readers and researchers, especially in the Malay language. My aim was to provide a resource that could serve not only as a general introduction to the oud but also as a reliable reference for students, researchers, and enthusiasts.

A Journey Rooted in Passion

The book draws heavily from my personal journey as an oud player, which began in 1999 when I first encountered and started learning the instrument during my time in London. My initial fascination with the oud stemmed from its distinctive sound and historical significance, which spans centuries and traverses cultures.

Over the years, my passion for the oud deepened, leading me to seek formal training. This culminated in my enrollment at the prestigious Beit el Oud al-Arabi in Cairo, Egypt—a renowned institution dedicated to the study of the oud and its performance traditions. My time at Beit el Oud was transformative, as it provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the instrument’s intricate techniques, its rich maqam system, and its enduring role in Middle Eastern music.

A Visual and Historical Narrative

Oud Warisan Seni dari Timur Tengah is not merely a textual exploration of the oud but also a visual one. The book is richly illustrated with photographs and images that document the instrument’s history, craftsmanship, and performance practices. Many of these visuals were sourced directly from my travels and personal experiences, providing an authentic glimpse into the world of the oud.

The narrative begins with my own introduction to the instrument, offering readers a personal perspective on the challenges and rewards of learning the oud. It then expands to explore the broader history of the instrument, tracing its origins, evolution, and cultural significance across the Middle East and beyond. This structure ensures that the book is both engaging and informative, making it accessible to a wide audience—from casual readers to serious scholars.

A Privilege and a Responsibility

It has been an immense privilege to be the first Malaysian to write and publish a book about the oud. This initiative was not just a personal achievement but also a contribution to the cultural and intellectual landscape of the country. By introducing the oud to a Malay-speaking audience, I hoped to inspire greater interest in this extraordinary instrument and its associated traditions.

The Second Edition: Expanding the Vision

Now, more than a decade since its initial release, I am in the process of editing the book for a second edition. This new edition will build upon the foundation of the original, incorporating updated information, additional visuals, and insights gained from my continued journey as an oud musician and researcher. My goal remains the same: to provide a comprehensive and accessible resource on the oud, while further enriching the narrative with new perspectives and discoveries.

For those who are curious about the oud—its history, its artistry, and its enduring allure—Oud Warisan Seni dari Timur Tengah remains a valuable starting point. The second edition will ensure that this resource continues to inspire and educate future generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the oud and its place in global musical heritage. -drrz