Oud Tortoiseshell Plectrum

The strings of the oud were traditionally plucked using an eagle's feather, known in the Arab world as a   risha   (and in Turkey as a mizrap). However, eagle feathers are not readily available nowadays, so modern players have looked to other materials. Many professional players use a risha made from the horn (of a cow, for example), which is softened first by being soaked in oil. Plastic rishas are also very popular both for beginner and professional, due to their cheapness and availability.

There are multiple ways to hold the Turtle Pick Risha Plectrum . You may learn how to hold a Turtle Pick Risha Plectrum one way and would like to change it according to your style or comfort during your journey. For example, you can h old the Turtle Pick Risha Plectrum between your index and thumb, not allowing too much or to little stick out. The rest of your fingers are curled around the Turtle Pick Risha Plectrum. And your thumb is curved. Or you can h old the Turtle Pick Risha Plectrum the same, but shortened the length that sticks out from between your fingers. You can play harder and stronger. And also you can use a thick, heavy Turtle Pick Risha Plectrum . The bigger the area, more string area you're going to hit. This is good for rhythmical playing, but it might be clumsy when you require finesse.

The strings of the oud are struck with the tip of the risha - downstrokes, upstrokes or a mixture of both are used, depending on the player's preference or the desired effect (downstrokes tend to produce more volume and a sharper 'attack'). Rapid alternation between downstrokes and upstrokes is known as tremolo. a good   risha   technique is one of the main signs of an accomplished oud player, so it is worth spending time on this aspect of your playing.