Naseer Shamma and graduates to perform three concerts celebrating the majesty of the oud

The Iraqi artist and composer will take part in shows streamed on YouTube

Iraq's Naseer Shamma will celebrate the diversity of the oud in new online concerts. Courtesy DCT Abu Dhabi

Get ready for some oud splendour, courtesy of a series of online concerts curated by a master of the instrument.

After wowing online audiences in April with a solo show, Iraqi oud artist and composer Naseer Shamma will return to screens with three distinctive performances.

Joined by students from his Bait Al Oud conservatories (locations include Abu Dhabi and Cairo), who will perform remotely from their homes, the Visits from Bait Al Oud series aims to celebrate the diversity of the instrument.

With each streaming from 8.30pm on the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) YouTube page, Shamma says the shows hope to be a soothing balm in this tumultuous period.

“In trying times such as these, it is important to continually foster a sense of community and togetherness, and to spread hope as much as we can,” he says.

“I’ve found that one of the best ways to deliver the message of hope is through music. The Visits from Bait Al Oud series has enabled my friends and I to safely be invited into homes around the world to share a message of hope and solidarity.

"We are excited to show the depth of classical music, offer unmissable vocal and instrumental experiences, and have viewers leave our concerts inspired to carry on this message of hope.”

Here is the breakdown of the three concerts.

Wednesday, May 13: The Story of the Oud

A great introduction to this rich instrument. If you think all ouds sound or are played the same, prepare to be blown away by the variety of styles on show here. The concert will also highlight the instruments taught in Bait Al Oud, including the violin, qanoon and cello.

Wednesday, June 3: Bait Al Oud and Abu Dhabi Classics: Universal Mozart

A cosmopolitan affair celebrating the life of composer Wolfgang Mozart. Shamma will lead an ensemble of Bait Al Oud graduates and guest musicians from Europe and Asia to perform Mozart compositions inspired by the Arab world.

Wednesday, June 17: Bait Al Oud’s Tribute to Classical Arabic Singing

Prepare to be taken back to the golden age of Arabic popular music as graduates from Bait Al Oud perform a selection of songs from legendary singers such as Egypt’s Um Kulthum and Lebanon’s Fairuz.

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