pauldata - 5-13-2007 at 02:02 AM
I was wondering about how to play the oud in the standing position? Has anyone here tried attaching strap-studs like on an acoustic guitar, and using
a strap? Is the oud of solid enough construction to withstand this?
The main reason I prefer standing is that I have many herniated discs in my spine, and standing is much more comfortable for me. Anyone have any
suggestions or comments? 
damascene_oud - 5-13-2007 at 02:18 AM
I don't think it's very convenient to hold the oud while standing due to its bulky concave shape. You need to consult a professional about attaching a
strap to the oud, this may affect the sound quality and the resonance as well.
But i hv seen someone playing oud "almost" standing, while leaning against a a very high chair like those used at the bars, so u may want to try that
option.
Brian Prunka - 5-13-2007 at 03:35 AM
Simon Shaheen parforms standing up with his band Qantara. He puts one foot on a chair and rests the oud on the leg normally. I'm not sure how much
this method will help your back. I've seen people use a strap before, it seeems to work okay.
pauldata - 5-14-2007 at 11:36 PM
The high stool or one legged stance won't work for me... 
Guess I'll have to research how to rig up a strap.
TheProfessor - 5-15-2007 at 06:52 AM
Hey Pauldata,
You can probably look into a Flamenco Guitar Strap. Flamenco Guitar or Classical Guitars have no strapstuds and is able to have a strap on it. Here is
shows a pic where the guy has the 2 ends connected by the soundhole.
http://www.luthiermusic.com/images/strap_demo.jpg
If you have rosettes it might be difficult to connect. My oud has 3 elliptical holes so very easy to connect and hold.
Anthony
pauldata - 5-15-2007 at 03:03 PM
I had been thinking of those flamenco type straps! My oud does have rosettes though, so I'm out of luck on that front.
I wonder if it would be OK to just install a pair of small strap studs like on a guitar???
Andy - 5-15-2007 at 06:50 PM
John Berberian plays standing, he uses a strap. There is a video recorded by Tomzara on youtube by the Hye Echoes band titled Assoomeyir Medley. The
URL is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7OJ4mKmp-c the oud player is standing and believe there are other Armenian oud players that play standing. Richie
Berberian plays a Najarian flat back oud standing. Check out another one of Tomzara's video's http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKlF8zWXaoA.
Andy - 5-15-2007 at 06:54 PM
the last URL malfunctioned so go to youtube and type in Tomzara and look for his video titled "Aravod @ Camp Haiastan"