I change them when they start sounding bad or the windings unravel or the string is unresponsive or dirty or there is some kind of problem. Sometimes
I'll keep the trebles on longer than the wound strings.
I have several ouds and some get played more than others so the strings on those ouds get worn faster and get replaced more often. Strings on ouds in
cases last longer than strings out in the open, at least here in San Francisco. In Arizona probably not.
It also depends also on what kind of strings I'm using. Pyramid lute strings cost a lot more and last a whole lot longer.
If I was playing oud professionally as I do on other instruments I would be changing strings more frequently. I'd want the best oud response I can get
and if I'm earning money from playing oud I won't mind spending some of that on new strings. It's routine maintenance. It comes down to how many
hours of playing has been done and under what circumstances. Hard playing wears out strings quicker. Perspiration kills the sound on some strings. But
sometimes worn strings with short sustain gives an old fashioned Arabic sound that is attractive on some ouds.
Playing at home, and practicing, does not usually create much wear and tear. Playing under stage lights or playing in situations where I have to
play harder to be heard will result in more frequent string changing.
In other words "It all depends" |
