About the school

A school built around the Oud

Taqasim School is a small London-based school dedicated to the oud and Arabic music theory, founded in 2011 by Iraqi oud master Ahmed Mukhtar.

Discover our story

Ahmed Mukhtar performing the oud at the school, London.

Students in an oud class at Taqasim Music School, London.

Our mission

Nurture the tradition. Inspire the future.

To provide outstanding oud and Arabic music theory education in a supportive environment where every student can develop technique, musicality and a deep appreciation for a rich musical heritage.

Our vision

A lifelong connection to Arabic music.

To empower adult learners to connect with the language of music — through the oud and theory — and to keep this timeless art form alive for generations to come.

Our story

A simple story of dedication and growth

Ahmed Mukhtar with his oud at the school.

2011

Taqasim School founded in London

Iraqi oud master Ahmed Mukhtar founded Taqasim School in London with a clear purpose: to share the depth and beauty of the oud and Arabic music theory with adult learners in a focused, personal setting.

Early years

The Mukhtar Method developed

Ahmed Mukhtar developed his own teaching approach — the Mukhtar Method — rooted in traditional foundations and refined through years of performance and pedagogy.

Writing musical notation for the Mukhtar Method curriculum.

Over the years

Curriculum expanded

The curriculum grew to include darbuka and comprehensive Arabic music theory, giving students a well-rounded musical foundation across performance, theory and percussion.

Today

A diverse community, together

Today, Taqasim School brings together a diverse community of adult learners from across London and beyond — studying in person and online, united by their love of Arabic music.