In 2002 I participated in the first International Oud Meeting in Thessaloniki, Greece, which took place from 29th November to 1st December. The event was organised by En Chordais - Musical Traditions of the Mediterranean as part of the Medimuses project, which is concerned with the different musical instruments of the region. The International Oud Meeting was the first of a series of gatherings, each devoted to a particular instrument.

The basis of the meeting was a programme of concerts and masterclasses by twelve of the world's top oud players. These represented the whole spectrum of oud playing, including Arabic, Turkish, Armenian and Greek styles. In addition, there was a series of lectures, a film projection and other oud-related events. A new generation of oud players were also given the chance to perform in an open-stage session, which presented a wealth of fresh talent.

The meeting was a resounding success, due mainly to the excellent organisation by En Chordais. In fact, it was generally agreed that it represented a turning point in the history of oud playing, as never before had such a diverse range of oud musicians come together for such an event.

(More details of the programme and musicians will be added in the near future - watch this space!)