Ever wondered where the soul of Turkish music is crafted? Right here in Istanbul lies Jaymaz Oud. It is not just a shop but a testament to a lifelong passion. It is a journey that began unexpectedly.
Mehmet Caymaz the heart and hands behind Jaymaz Oud was born in 1963. His early skills lay in crafting tools for agriculture. Who would have guessed that this would evolve into crafting musical instruments?
At 13, he arrived in Ankara seeking knowledge in electronics and mechanics. Fate intervened leading him to become a shoe maker’s apprentice. But music beckoned. At 16, the sound of an oud played by a leather trader captivated him. This sound ignited a flame. He joined the Turkish Art Music Association. There he bought his first oud and continued until the age of twenty.
After military service, Mehmet’s path took another turn. He explored Sufi music finding depth in its lyrics. This spiritual awakening reshaped his life. He left the shoe business and travelled as a salesman. Yet, his hands yearned to create.
At 24, he opened a shoe repair shop. Yet, his passion expanded beyond shoes. He delved into ironwork carpentry and even TV repair. His journey took an unexpected turn when a customer invited him to the opening of a music store. This rekindled his love for music. He began studying the oud and baglama. In his shoe workshop, he built his first baglama.
The shopkeeper recognizing his talent encouraged him to make ouds. This marked the birth of Jaymaz Oud. For five years, he juggled shoes and instruments. Musicians praised his creations. He finally chose to focus solely on crafting ouds.
Istanbul’s renowned oud masters sought his expertise. Mehmet began crafting oud boats for them. This gave him invaluable insights into diverse techniques. He studied acoustics physics and the long-term effects on ouds.
Focusing entirely on instrument making he invested in machinery. Thus he established Jaymaz Oud. Impressively he exports 95% of his ouds. Mehmet’s philosophy is simple continuous improvement and innovation. He even pioneered the oud identity card a certificate detailing its creation. This includes the date materials and care instructions.
Jaymaz Oud offers both classic and innovative designs. Mehmet has crafted three oud models with varying depths. These provide musicians with a range of options. He also designed five unique plectrums. These cater to different playing styles. He even designed an acoustic electro oud model for other luthiers.
But Mehmet’s work goes beyond the technical. He sees each oud as a fusion of the concrete and abstract. Each instrument reflects the maker’s skill and life energy. He believes the oud embodies the voice of a wise old man.
For those starting their oud journey Mehmet advises against low-quality instruments. Seek balanced and beautiful sounds that inspire. Choose instruments that resonate with your soul. As your skill grows progress to more professional ouds.
Remember to protect your oud from extreme conditions. Use a quality case and avoid humidity. Mehmet Caymaz’s journey is a testament to passion craftsmanship and the enduring power of music. Jaymaz Oud stands as a beacon for musicians worldwide. It offers not just instruments but a piece of Mehmet’s heart and soul.