Yunus Emre InstituteYunus Emre Institute London hosted an exclusive event as part of its Arts & Culture Lecture Series, celebrating the publication of “The Oud: An Illustrated History” by Rachel Beckles Willson who is an award-winning author and Professor of Intercultural Performing Arts at Codarts University of the Arts in Rotterdam, also a multi-instrumentalist, and composer. The event, held on the 25th of April 2024, was a unique blend of a book launch, a conversation on music’s cultural impact, and a concert that bridged history with contemporary artistry.
Rachel Beckles Willson, the author of the book, and Martin Stokes, distinguished scholar and expert in the field of ethnomusicology engaged in a thought-provoking conversation about the role of music in shaping our world. They discussed the oud’s cultural influences and its role in connecting cultures. Beckles Willson shared insights from her book, which offers readers an illustrated journey through the oud’s storied past, its evolution, its significance in various musical cultures, and its spread beyond its traditional boundaries to new regions and audiences.
Beckles Willson discussed the oud’s rich history, tracing the instrument’s evolution from its mythical origins to its contemporary significance in various musical cultures. She highlighted how the oud has managed to transcend its traditional boundaries, attacking new audiences and regions. She also shared her personal experiences with the oud, providing a unique perspective that comes from a deep, personal connection with the instrument. She highlighted the subtle differences in the oud’s use and interpretation in different contexts, such as Iraqi and Turkish traditions. Beckles Willson’s discussion allowed the audience to appreciate the oud not just as a musical instrument, but as a cultural symbol with diverse interpretations.
During the talk Martin Stokes added his perspectives to the discussion, enriching the conversation with his deep understanding of music’s cultural impact. He talked about the oud’s influence on various music cultures and its role in connecting different cultures.
The evening concluded with a concert by Rachel Beckles Willson and Umut Ekiz, as a treat for the attendees with their renditions on the oud, demonstrating its timeless allure. They played classical pieces including famous “Çeçen Kızı”. A highlight of the evening was when an audience member joined Rachel and Umut on the stage and they played and recited “Dök Zülfünü Meydâne Gel”.
“The Oud: An Illustrated History” is a beautifully crafted work that encompasses the craftsmanship of the instrument, the diversity of its players, and its place in literature and storytelling. The book has been praised for its comprehensive history, lavish illustrations, and thoughtful analysis of the shifting global dynamics that gave the oud its reach.
The event was an invitation to experience the convergence of history, music, and narrative—a chance to understand the oud not just as an instrument but as a living legacy that continues to inspire and connect people across the world.