Lysander - 12-23-2013 at 01:46 AM
With Christmas coming up I will be away for a few days. I can't really take the oud with me, but I still want to keep my mind 'in tune' with the
instrument while I'm gone. Nothing is a substitute for playing and practising, but what what would you recommend doing while I'm away? Read theory
books or listen to oud music a lot? What would be best to keep the mind exercised?
hussamd - 12-23-2013 at 05:40 AM
I find I play better when I leave the instrument for a few days. It renews my interest and passion for it. It'll be waiting for you when you get
back.
Alfaraby - 12-23-2013 at 10:44 AM
Mohammad Abd Al Wahab used to say: if you leave your oud for a day, it will leave you for two days 
Haifetz used to say: if you don't practice for one day, you'd know it. If you don't practice for two days, the audience would know it.
For the time you're away, listen to great players and enjoy your vacation.
Merry Christmas
Yours indeed
Alfaraby
Lysander - 12-23-2013 at 10:47 AM
Thank you, both.
hussamd, I agree and know what you mean. It's like when you rest one or two days before going back to the gym... you come back stronger.
Alfaraby, I cohere as well. I will listen to oud when I am away and keep my mind in tune.