| The Oud is one of the oldest and finest instruments of Arabic and Eastern music, and this important book by Marcel Khalife contributes to the revival of an important cultural and artistic heritage of the Middle East.
This collection of compositions establishes a foundation for harmony between the Oud and various musical instruments. The novelty of pairing the classic Oud with new instruments poses new technical challenges for musicians, giving this publication significant educational value.
There are obstacles that a performer faces whenever a composer of contemporary Arabic music steps beyond traditional realms and introduces musical concepts that are distinct from those inherited from the standard Longa, Sama'i, and Bashraf forms.
Daring and pioneering composition always raises the question of how to perform the unfamiliar. In the case of the Oud, this could be Jazz music, soundtrack for Oud and orchestra, interplays between the Oud and other instruments, or merely a staccato "run" of 24 thirty second notes for the end of the Oud's fingerboard.
Novel techniques must be invented, as in this book, through new music that will enable the hands and fingers to conquer the unknown in string manipulation and tame what was previously considered beyond reach.
Marcel Khalife's music undoubtedly is a leading contribution to the enrichment of Arabic music and innovation. |