London · Since 2011
Grow your skills at Taqasim School
Taqasim Music School was founded in London in 2011 by oud master and composer Ahmed Mukhtar. We teach Arabic and Middle Eastern music to students of all backgrounds, from complete beginners to advanced players preparing for professional performance.
Our teaching draws on the living traditions of the Arab world — the maqam system, classical and folk repertoire, modal improvisation — delivered in a structured, methodical way that makes deep musical knowledge genuinely accessible.
2011
Founded
500+
Students taught
Oud · Qanun · Violin · Voice
Instruments
Founder & Director
Ahmed Mukhtar
Oud master · Composer · Teacher
Ahmed Mukhtar is one of the most respected oud players of his generation. Born in Baghdad, he trained under the great Iraqi master Munir Bashir before moving to London, where he has built a distinguished career as a performer, recording artist, and educator.
He has performed at major venues and festivals across Europe and the Middle East, collaborated with orchestras and chamber ensembles, and recorded multiple critically acclaimed albums. His compositions span classical Arabic forms, contemporary fusion, and original works for oud and orchestra.
As a teacher, Ahmed brings the same precision and depth to education that defines his playing. His method balances technical rigour with musical intuition — students learn not just how to play, but how to listen, feel, and improvise within the tradition.
Why Taqasim
Real teachers. Real music.
Master lineage
Every teacher trained under great oud masters in Baghdad, Damascus, Cairo and London. Nothing here is second-hand.
Meet the teachersOur own curriculum
Eight volumes of the Mukhtar Method — the book series taught in every course, from first plectrum stroke to advanced improvisation.
Read the methodOpen to the public
Monthly Oud Club evenings, student showcases and Ensemble concerts across London — everyone welcome, no reading required.
See upcoming events