A few years ago my parents bought me an oud as a birthday gift. Being located in an area without any oudists, I was forced to seek out information and instruction on my own. Virtually no information was in print, and very little was available on the internet. Eventually things began to improve. A book on oud construction was written, luthiers began to publish their own websites, and a popular internet forum at www.arabicouds.com was established that allowed players, luthiers and beginners to share information. I even started building ouds to learn more about this "forefather" of plucked instruments. Despite these wonderful resources, there is still a bit of difficulty obtaining decent, playable instruments, information and accesories in North America, especially for a beginner. I've spent years researching strings, tunings, cases, oud-makers, picks, you name it. I thought it was time to start a website where basic information can be obtained, as well as the hard-to-find products and accessories associated with the oud. I'm hoping to share some of my experiences and make things easier for those whose shoes I was once in.

- Jameel (Khalaf) Abraham

*a note about the name "Khalaf". My paternal family name is Khalaf. Our last name was changed to Abraham (the first name of my grandfather) when my greatgrandfather emigrated to the United States. I use the name Khalaf to honor my grandfather who was not only a great admirer of the oud, but was also a dedicated woodworker.

The following are unsolicited comments from past customers:

"Last year my husband brought me a lovely oud purchased in Izmir, Turkey. Since then I have wanted a fitting way to display the oud while keeping it safe. I was delighted to discover your website....... The oud stand arrived on Saturday in good shape. It was easy to put together and is exactly what I wanted: a simple, elegant design in wood. Thank you very much."
-Lynn C., Ohio, USA

"I am impressed! The kit you sent was amazing. It took me a few minutes to finish my first risha and work it to my specifications. (Mizrite pick blanks) Trying it for the first time revealed that it actually optimized the oud sound. The usual risha "bang" when it hit the strings is simply not there! The natural frequency of the material is very low, resulting in a higher power output with a much cleaner sound. Well done."
-Hatem M., Texas, USA

"Just restrung the oud and with your rishas (Pyramid Pro Picks) they make the oud sing! The lower tension (Aquila Light Arabic set) seems to give a bit more sympathetic silky, less percusive sound so that slides and vibrato are smoother even with the action at the bridge raised a little more. Thanks once again.
-Kelly B., Lancashire, UK

"At last-a great misrap that I can play with great flexibility and control. Your latest mizrite product for me is the best material for misrap. I sanded it down for the flex I wanted and there is no sign of breakage. Also, the sound is richer and louder with this pick.
Thank you for being who you are and helping us with all of these products that we would never know about in this area because there is no place or no one with knowledge of oud playing that we could go to.for what is needed for oud playing. Hope you will continue to grow your business and be availiable for supplying what is needed for the oud. I am only an amateur, but what I have purchased from you so far has helped me be a better oud player. Thank you again.
-Philip S., California, USA

"... I just had a chance to actually open your envelop and see the lute strings along with the beautiful risha of yours. I love them all. I just wanted to say thank you so very much."
-Ahmed A., Japan

"Just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with the picks……well worth the wait! They play as well as the tortoise shell ones I bought for a hefty price in Istanbul, maybe even better."
-Peter O., Vancouver, British Columbia

"...just wanted to say the Mizrite is great. Very bouncy, but also very controlled. Also, I've used the same risha for the past 3 days, for at least a couple of hours per day, and it hasn't worn down a bit. Very good stuff. "
-Rhett G., Pennsylvania, USA

"You are doing a great job with your website and with offering such
wonderful products to all of us oud enthusiasts."
-Mark K., California, USA

"I received the oud stand on Tue. The color is a pretty close match with my Shehata. Very nice. I like the the way it grips the oud. Thanks again."
-Fred S., USA

"I have purchased a number of items from your website and just to say thanks for a great online store."
Anthony G., Canada

"Thanks. I have received the case. It is above my expectation from all aspects. I have Fawzi Monshid (Iraqi oud) fitted very well."
Abdul A., Boston

"Got my case today and coudn't be happier. I love the color and don't regret not getting red at all. The design is perfect and it feels very protective yet light and sporty. just what I wanted! Thanks, it was worth the wait."
Tony H., California

"I received my soft case today. It fits my ouds very well and I am very pleased with it. It will be great to take on gigs. Especially when I have to play violin also and carry equipment.....Bravo!"
Bob R., Norwood, Mass.

"My Oud has a home now, I love the case, it was worth the wait. Thank you so much. "
Salah F., Twin Cities USA

"Yesterday I received your case! It is perfect, my Shehata fits very well, it is light and easy to travel with. Thank you for your wonderful job... My best regards."
Nicola N., Italy

" I've got the Case!!...Wow..it's fantastic!....very comfortable and safe at the same time...it's the kind of case i've always dream about!!!....with that i can carry also more precious ouds without killing my arms or shoulders taking around big heavy cases...!...."
Elias N., Italy