This method and its accompanying recording are for the beginning and intermediate oud student interested in gaining a stronger understanding of makamtheory and practice on the oud, while also providing advice and exercises usefulfor improving overall playing technique. Three beautiful and commonly heardmakams are presented, specifically Rast, Mahur and Nikriz. The unique characteristics of each of these makams are described and illustrated in detail through exercises, etudes and traditional repertoire, using a wide variety of rhythms and compositional forms, and paired with audio recordings to guide you in your practice. Audio download available online