Middle Eastern Percussion's topics - tribe.net

Konnokol

2008-07-06T16:41:26Z

I just started looking at konnokal (the Indian verbal counting system). But what I can't figure out is what is its value over simply counting which I've been doing for decades? What is the "advantage" of "Ta-ki-ta" over "one-trip-let" for example?

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Can you name all of the rhythms or counts...

2008-07-04T11:33:50Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Jfbkb_wuIY

It's really hard playing to this. The rhythm of the vocals doesn't always match the percussion rhythm that goes with it.

~D

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

New Gawharet el Fan sumbati.

2008-07-02T15:04:41Z

I just got my new sumbati in, and I am very pleased with it. I ordered from Essam (contact him at info@sphinxshop.com).
He gave me a good price and inlaid my name on it for me. The instrument came with a clean bearing edge and smooth interior, inlay totally intact, and it was even tuned when I got it!
Took me about a month from ordering to delivery. I have had bad Gawharet drums in the past, but it appears that ordering direct from the factory has it's advantages. Essam was quite responsive and and I would recommend going through him to get a good Gawharet instrument.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 7 replies

Clip of Hossam Ramzy drum in action

2008-06-30T14:28:07Z

I finally got around to uploading a clip of my drum teacher Jamal Zraika playing Hossam Ramzy old drum in January this year.

It's a Ashra Baladi peice. You might have to fast forward a bit to hear the drumming part.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBU7tfmbqD0

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 13 replies

House of Tarab

2008-06-27T03:18:49Z

I just hung(hanged) out with Stephen Elaimy of the Arabic band HOUSE OF TARAB and he played me tracks off their upcoming album.

I just wanted to warn all the "bellydance" bands out there that the bar has just been raised waaaaaay out of reach by this new record...

You've all been put on notice, folks....a new era is coming. Try not to cry.

http://www.myspace.com/houseoftarab

www.houseoftarab.com

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 12 replies

A twist on a familiar topic

2008-06-24T05:59:45Z

Okay, so one of these days I really want to get myself a nice ceramic. I have a decent aluminum, and if and when I have the money to spend on a new one of those, I know where I'm gonna look, and what I'm gonna do. But we don't tend to talk much about ceramic doumbeks, what's good, and where to find them.

I'll qualify it more, I suppose, by giving more parameters on what I'm looking for. I'm looking for something to give me that old school, classic arabic sound. Think Gamal Goma, or even older classic arabic players. I'm not looking for a turkish drum, nor anything big and bassy. I'm also not looking for some sort of hybrid drum - the Daveed Doumbek is a great instrument, and well made, but not the sound I'm looking for. Gotta be fishskin, with or without lacing, with or without inlay. Totally not into the modern earthy stuff like Full Circle makes either. While they are pretty to look at, they don't have a consistent sound around the rim, because they're not very evenly shaped. I'm also not looking for anything that is too cost prohibitive, though I'm sure that either Hassan or Kevork could probably make something of beauty were I able to go there and pay the price.

So what are the options when it comes to clay drums? I know someone on here is starting to make them, but I'm not sure where he is in the process (don't remember his name offhand). I also know of Hamid Alwan, in the midwest (Village Bazaar) who's got reasonable prices (though they just went up) but I have no idea what they sound like. Of course there's always the cheap inlay ceramics from Mid East with the fishskin heads, but I don't know much about them either. I know how much we all love another "what doumbek should I buy" thread, but I figured this covered ground that I haven't seen discussed much at all in the few years I've been amongst you all on here. Any thoughts?

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 24 replies

Kevork riq for sale

2008-06-23T21:12:37Z

Dear Middle Eastern Percussionists,
I just came back from Lebanon, and brought with me a kevork riq.
Im listing it on eBay, item number: 260252297535.
I also expect to get a few more soon.
If anyone is interested please email me at johnnyfarraj@yahoo.com.
salam's
Johnny

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 7 replies

Pharos LIVE pics (AZ)

2008-06-23T07:03:36Z

Mikel Florman's Pharos pics are available here (slide show).

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=376417472

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Cooperman fish skin

2008-06-18T21:48:56Z

Hi there,

Do any of you have experience with the fish skin on Cooperman riqs?
How does it compare to traditional, professional quality Egyptian riq skins in terms of quality and sound character?

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

finding the source of a buzzing drum

2008-06-18T12:14:29Z

So I have this great new sumbati-type mother-of-pearl drum with a good doum sound and a great feel to it. It's becoming my main drum ... but with both plastic heads that came with it, I am hearing a buzzing sound after I play the doum. I've loosened and tightened the head, and tried to cut out some of the "extra" plastic on the outside of the crimped metal ring that holds the head together in case that's vibrating or something, but still it buzzes. I've examined the drum itself and it appears extremely solid and well-made, with nicely smoothed surfaces.

It's driving me crazy! Anyone have any ideas about how to go about eliminating it?

Thanks,

John

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 12 replies

Souhail Kaspar in Austin

2008-06-15T13:12:52Z

For those of you who missed a great opportunity in Austin to take classes with Souhail it was wonderful. Souhail is very different than most if not all other teachers I have had and is very forthcoming with the tips that we all need to become better. He even was very accomodating for the left handed drummer that I am. The show friday night was very nice with a full live band. We had Souhail and the bands drummer so that was awesome. The keyboardist who composed two of the songs they played was very professional and had great communication with the other band members. Sorry for all of you who missed out.

S

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

SkynDeep...

2008-06-14T20:40:59Z

I got the 8" SkynDeep head from Mid-East to be used on my Raquy 4-lug model. I haven't installed it yet. I noticed that the crown is listed as being 3/4"... however, from the bottom of the hoop to the top of the head, the one I received measures 1-1/8" (9/8) tall -- that's obviously considerably more than 3/4". Can anyone with this same head (Mid-East Mfg. # SD08) confirm this measurement? The head almost looks like it's made for a bongo, since it has such a high collar.

Also, has anyone purchased, or attempted to purchase, the following REMO head:

M6-R900-S5-SD003 : 9.00" R-Series, SKYNDEEP™, 'Calfskin' Graphic, M6 Type, 9.00" Crown, Medium Collar

...it [presumably] looks to be the same as the 9" SkynDeep Fish-Skin graphic model, just with a calfskin print. ?? Not that the fish-skin design looks all too bad, but I'd be open to using a more neutral looking skin like this on one of my drums.

Thanks in advance,
Steve Mc.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 5 replies

Skins and sound

2008-06-11T15:00:10Z

Hi everybody,

I read various threads saying that some doumbeks (darbukas), such as the Kobi Hagoel drum, or the Emin darbukas, have a more "ringy" sound, or are more adapted to Turkish music, than GeF or Alexandria drums which have a "dryer" sound more adapted to Arabic music.

I was wondering whether the type of sound was depending more on the drum (shape, material) or more on the skin (head) ?

The fact is, I have three darbukas, a GeF with a Skyndeep head (the two original GeF heads were absolute crap and the Skyndeep was the only replacement skin I could find with the right diameter), a second-hand Ikaa Diab (Syrian I believe ?) in cast aluminium with a blue mylar head and a Vatan (Turkish) 8-lugger spun aluminium drum (also with blue mylar head - it looks pretty much like the Meinl drums and maybe comes out of the same factory) and I feel that the GeF sounds a bit ringy, while the two other sound pretty much "Arabic" to my (unexperienced) ears...

And since the Kobi Hagoel darbuka comes with a Remo (Fiberskyn?) head and I read somewhere that the Emin darbuka also had a kind of Fiberskyn head rather than a transparent mylar head, I thought maybe any darbuka with a mylar head will sound "Arabic" and any darbuka with a Remo Fiberskyn or Skyndeep head will sound ringy ?

Or could somebody please describe what difference they actually mean between Turkish sound and Arabic sound ?

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 14 replies

Austin, Tx-SOHAIL KASPAR, June 13-15 at Austin Belly Dance Convention

2008-06-10T02:13:13Z

Bahaia & HOT Seminars present
THE AUSTIN BELLY DANCE CONVENTION
June 13-15, 2008
Williamson Conference Center
Round Rock, TX (North Austin)

GALA SHOW
DRUM (& DANCE) WORKSHOPS FOR ALL LEVELS
BELLY DANCE CONTEST
SHOPPING BAZAAR
HAFLA

featuring Internationally acclaimed belly dancer, SADIE and Grammy nominated percussionist, SOUHAIL KASPAR
plus Outi of Cairo, Sa'diyya, Brandy Bollin, Tamra Henna, Mehndi by Marcy, and Bahaia and LIVE MUSIC with Samer Issa and the Amwaj band

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY!
www.bahaia.com (information about drum and dance classes here)

About the Instructors
*Sadie www.sadiebellydancer.com
*Souhail Kaspar www.neareastmusic.com
Outi www.outiofcairo.com

• FRIDAY, JUNE 13
==============
The event will kick off with our GALA SHOW
9-11pm: Live Music with Samer Issa and The Amwaj Band from Houston and Master Percussionist, SOUHAIL KASPAR and Belly Dance Show starring SADIE, Bahaia and special guests; Tickets $20/advance purchase, $5/child; doors open at 8pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 14... ALL DAY, baby!
=======================
10:30am - 12:30pm Egyptian Tabla (Doumbek) Fundamentals with SOUHAIL KASPAR (upstairs classroom); Fee $50/advance purchase

1-2pm Break

2-7pm... Open Stage, shopping, henna tattoos, food vendors(ballroom); FREE ADMISSION

3-5pm Intermediate/Advanced Egyptian Tabla (Doumbek) with SOUHAIL KASPAR; Fee $50/advance purchase

7-11pm The Heart of Texas Belly Dance Contest & Arabic DJ/Party(ballroom); FREE ADMISSION

SUNDAY, JUNE 15
===============
10-12pm Rhythm/Movement for dancers with SOUHAIL KASPAR & Bahaia (ballroom); Fee $50/advance purchase

Register early. Space is limited in all classes. Pricing at the door will be $5 more per class/show. Registration is non-refundable and non-transferable. Packages can not be split/shared.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 8 replies

WANTED: 8" REMO Head...

2008-06-05T05:56:40Z

I am in need of an 8" REMO SkynDeep head; model number BD-0008-00-SD001.

I recently ordered model SD-08 from Mid-East Mfg., which has too high of a collar.

I'm able to purchase via PayPal, or a money order. Any help is much appreciated!!

-Steve Mc.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Tuned drums from Azerbaijian

2008-06-05T01:30:19Z

I first heard this song on an old Ibrahim Tatlises album. Here it is with tuned drums...too incredible, the creativity and chops:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=szK5D3vWNDU&feature=related

And the rest of the band is sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

Dhol solo

2008-05-31T19:08:46Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKEDcR27Bfo&feature=related

and Nagara, while we're at it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29Q1lS7sqVc

Sick stuff. ;:^)>

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Kevork Riq question.

2008-05-30T19:27:22Z

Hello tribe!

My question is. How tuning a kevork riq? and how works your system of internal tuning?

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 21 replies

Loose the Skyndeep

2008-05-27T15:39:18Z

Hi all,

just put the Skyndeep head on my new GeF standard tabla. There's a noticeable difference between mylar and Skyndeep heads' height. So I used a hair-drier to fit the head better, but anyway, comparing with mylar head it's over tight and sounds dry. Should I heat it more, or is there any other way to loose the Skyndeep head and lower its pitch ?

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 6 replies

Fares Karam and Band drumming highlights

2008-05-27T08:09:24Z

Hey All,

This is a video clip of a famous Lebanese singer, Fares Karam, and his band when touring Sydney Australia last year.

Here you will see Kevork Tabals, Maktoums and a Mazhur in action.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmcrwd21eWU

BTW Jamal is play my doumbek, which ended up visiting places in Australia I'd never seen before

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 5 replies

Sufi Rhythms

2008-05-24T01:01:03Z

Thanks to Jeff of www.khafif.com I could find already
Daem 4 beats D_tt
Garyan 14 beats D__D_t_t__D_t_
Haddadi 8 beats D_Dtt_tt
HalGerten 16 beats D_ttD_t_T_ttD_t_
HayAllah 8 beats D_Dtt_T_
HayAllahAllah 10 beats D_kT_D_T__
Maddahi 12 beats D_D_TtD_T___
Saghghezi 12 beats DttDt_TttDt_
Zekr-e-Dovvom 16 beats D_ttD_ttD___T_T_

Moreover I am familiar with
Zaar 8 beats D__kD_T_ (Dk_kD_T_)

In order to use the rhythms for meditation (Zhikr; Dikr) the open-end question is: which "lyrics" fit which rhythm?

All the best from Vienna,
Oskar

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

Chicks rock!!!

2008-05-23T18:20:56Z

Check out this fine example of chicks who r-a-w-k!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ti4gJqn7GgE

Fellas, don't cry, ladies, you either...

Uh...I gotta go practice...

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 9 replies

Just a comment....

2008-05-22T13:57:39Z

Wow, there are so many more posts here than on the oud, saz, ney, etc. tribes. In fact there are more recent posts on this tribe alone than all my instrumental tribes combined.
I know that in the genre of Middle Eastern music, more people play drums than melody instruments in the US, but now I am still somewhat surprised by the numbers.
More power to you drummers! Cheers....

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 14 replies

DAVID K new DVD

2008-05-21T16:12:28Z

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=aBhQ5g9Tv-s

Check out David’s preview of his New DVD.
This will be awesome – professionally production.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 5 replies

Drum Maker in Chicago

2008-05-19T18:13:44Z

i am currently making 9 tarija and 4 dohlahs all made from hammer raised steel and natural skins

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Raquy in AZ June 14th and 15th!

2008-05-17T22:33:26Z

Hey everybody, Raquy Danziger of Raquy and the Cavemen will be in town On June 14th and 15th to perform in a show and teach some doumbek workshops. I encourage you all to come out and embrace this opportunity to learn and get some tips from one of the great doumbek players in America. Space is limited.

Bernd Geh of AZ Drum and Dance is also teaching a djembe workshop!

The workshops will be held at ASU. You can find the specifics here:

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=376417472

You can register for workshops (or buy show tickets) on-line at:

http://trashcityentertainment.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=26

Or, you can register with Anaya Tribal, The White Claws, or The Desert Flowers in person (cash only).

Thanks...

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Hi All

2008-05-17T15:15:37Z

As i wrote before for some reason i don't get any diegest of the group (miss it a lot) cause i like the people here , any way , i saw a mail looking for good riq and that you can't find Qevork ,so here is a link to see Eli Huli's riq that is on the same level and i can tell personally that i played on them both and they are the level ,check out David's drumming on it : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6K-BECyh2A .you can find them great drums with Zohar Fresco playing on them http://www.nurikom.com/elihuli .all the best kobi hagoel

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Looking for Tabla

2008-05-16T12:18:41Z

Hey group,
I have a friend looking to buy a Hossam Ramzy Tabla.
Anyone here who owns one, and is interested in selling, please contact me: ericp37@yahoo.com
My friend is looking to purchase a used one, and wishes to buy and ship within the U.S.
Thanks,
-Eric

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 8 replies

Guedra "drum"

2008-05-14T03:47:51Z

I am going to be part of a Guedra dance performance in August. In reading about Guedra, I see that the traditional "drum" is a cooking pot with a skin attached for a drum head. So far I have not seen anything like this online. I was just curious if such a thing is sold anywhere, or will I have to make do with one of my existing drums. Thanks for your help.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 4 replies

raquy and the cavemen

2008-05-11T16:13:36Z

this weekend, my companion drummer and i had the distinct pleasure to see raquy and the cavemen perform at the vault in santa cruz, and the real honor to each have a 1 hour private drum lesson with raquy before their soundcheck.

if you ever have the opportunity to do either, i highly recommend it. as a teacher, for how well travelled and distinguished she is, raquy is incredibly approachable, humble, and an overall great instructor. we'd love to make it to one of her dumbek retreats in the summer, but not this year though.

as a group, the cavemen put on one rockin' show. so tight, very entertaining, & completely inspiring to revisit my fundamentals, and spend time on what i skipped over (slow continuous finger rolls- for example) as a novice to work towards being that smooth, fast, & controlled.

thanks raquy, liron, & cavemen! safe travels & we'll see you next time

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Natiq Sirinov

2008-05-09T11:49:40Z

If you are like me, you will cry tears of joy when you see this!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErGRhktZKuw&feature=related

Completely sick!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 23 replies

Jingle Makers?

2008-05-09T11:46:10Z

I got this honkin' big muzhar when I ordered a riq. 14.5 inches across. It sounds great. Thing is, the jingles look like something picked up out othe scrap heap in a sheet metal shop.

Do you know anyone that makes jingles? The jingles that came with the thing are stainless steel cutouts from someone's sheet metal shop-scrap. Hand hammered bronze/brass/copper aren't necessary, but machined or pressed ones would be nice and sound a lot better.

At least with the steel one's I can play the "chains" part to Ramzy's "Halloween". HAHAHAHA!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

Arabic Music Retreat - August 9-16, 2008

2008-05-08T16:46:42Z

Discover Arabic Music with Simon Shaheen, Dr. A.J. Racy,
and the Master Instructors at the Twelfth Annual Arabic Music Retreat A week-long intensive session in Arabic music
August 9-16, 2008 • Mount Holyoke College • South Hadley, MA
www.simonshaheen.com

Instruments Taught:
•Voice
•Nay (end-blown reed flute)
•Strings: violin, viola, cello, string bass
•Plucked Strings: `Ud (Arabic lute), Qanun (plucked zither), Buzuq
•Traditional Arabic hand percussion: Riqq (tambourine), Tablah (goblet shaped drum) and Tar (frame drum)

Activities:
• Ear-training
• Music theory and analysis
• Music literature
• Private and group instrumental and vocal lessons
• Coached ensembles and large orchestra
• Recital by participants and faculty

Faculty:
Simon Shaheen — Artistic and Executive Director, Performance and Theory, Chamber Music
Dr. A.J. Racy — Associate Director, Nay and Buzuq Performance, Literature and
Analysis, Chamber Music
Bassam Saba — 'Ud and Nay Performance, Chamber Music
Charbel Rouhana — 'Ud Performance, Chamber Music
Rima Khcheich — Vocal Performance, Chamber Music
Najib Shaheen — Chamber Music
William Shaheen — Music Theory, 'Ud Performance, Chamber Music
Jamal Sinno — Qanun Performance, Chamber Music
Dr. Iman Roushdy-Hammady — Arabic Vocal Diction
Michel Merhej — Percussion Performance
Karim Nagi — Adjunct Percussion Instructor

• Residential fees ($863-$1,033) include accommodations, meals and classes
• Commuter rate: $746
• Transportation to and from the Retreat not provided
• Participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult relative
• Registration deadline: July 1, 2008; Final payment due by August 1, 2008
• For more information contact: kaycam@aol.com or 617-512-8122
• Registration form available at: www.simonshaheen.com

The Arabic Music Retreat is sponsored by the Arab American Arts Institute.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

To Anyone Interested in Studying Music in Turkey... We've finally got a Guest House designed for musicians!

2008-05-08T16:37:47Z

...Hey guys, I'm very excited to finally be spreading the word about this. For those of you who know me or have followed my blog postings in the past, you probably already know that I've been involved in a long term project in Istanbul. I'm proud to say that Sound Fabrika Studios has finally finished preparations and we're open for business!

What we're doing here is trying to help foreigners who come to Turkey connect with some of the great musicians in the city here for lessons and music research. Right now we're running this place as a sort of guest house, but a guest house with a sound-insulated practice space, and some of the best of the youngest generation of musicians teaching and helping people like us network and get involved in the diverse and wonderful music scene here.

For a price comparable to most pensions in the area we are offering a warm bed, bathroom w/ shower, turkish breakfast and free reign to use the practice rooms here from 8am-midnight whenever classes or private lessons aren't going on. (and finding somewhere to play a davul at 11pm at night is no easy task here!). We've also spent a lot of time working out agreements with some really phenomenal musicians, and we can arrange lessons with all forms of percussion (darbuka, bendir, kudum, asmi davul, udu drums etc.) as well as oud, baglama saz, kanun, clarinet, roman violin and many more....

I'd be happy to send you more information about specific teachers and more details about our lesson programs if any of you guys are interested in what we're doing here. I'm also happy to provide some references from some of the americans that I have met coming through who have studied with some of these teachers as well, so feel free to ask. We also have connections with some prominent oriental dance teachers in the city and are happy to help dance students connect with them as well.

I got involved in this project originally because of my own experiences living in the city here my first year and trying really hard to find good teachers.... it's no easy task. I've recently been making an effort to get more video online of what some of these guys can do. You can check out Hakan, our resident percussion teacher on some of the clips I've uploaded the other day:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vh93KRxAp7w

I love being able to find these great musicians work as much as I love being able to help students find really good teachers, and I think the sentiment is shared by everyone working on this with me. I hope some of you guys get a chance to take advantage of this stuff!

Feel free to drop me an email at raghebn@gmail.com with any questions, or you can try me on tribe (though I check my account here less often lately)

Kolay gelsin!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 4 replies

Roman Hidirellez Festival

2008-05-06T19:40:35Z

Some street scenes from today's rainy Hidirellez Festival in Sulukule, Istanbul. And DAVUL players in the second half !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ine3P9WdXk

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

just a little exercise

2008-05-06T08:00:40Z

here is a fun one for split finger work from my class with Mehmet Akatay last night.

then try accenting all the L's except the 3rd one. it's nifty!

put all the notes together as in a roll - dashes are for ease of reading.

R1 L1 R3 R1 ---- L3 R3 R1 L1 ----- L3 R3 R1 L1 ----- R3 L3 R1 R3

R1 - right index
R3 - right ring
L1 - left index
L3 - left ring

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 5 replies

DRUM WORKSHOPS with Karim Nagi / 05-11-08 / Los Angeles

2008-05-04T23:00:49Z

LINK
http://www.turbotabla.com/LA/

SUNDAY MAY 11th. DRUM WORKSHOPS
@ Studio IQAAT (Donovan's Studio)
3515 eagle rock blvd. La. Ca 90065
*****
ARAB DRUM WORKSHOPS "SAIDI, SAUDI, SUDASI" (SSS): Sunday
1pm - 3pm, $25 at door only.

Students may bring their Arabic Tabla, Dumbek, Darabuka, Riqq, Duff, Muzhar or Frame drum. Karim will teach these three dynamic rhythms, emphasizing the Arab technique of double off-hand taks and running method. Students will learn how these rhythms propel specific dance styles from around the Arab world. Karim engages all levels from advanced beginner (someone with basic skills) to advanced intermediate.

Every level will be adequately challenged and will benefit from the ensemble approach.
---SAIDI (Southern Egyptian) is used for cane dance, ghawazee, pop and folk music. Karim will teach a four part Saidi with emphasis on the empty first beat, and slow yet bubbling tempo.
---SAUDI (Arabian Peninsula) is used for "Khaliji" urban and popular folk music. Karim will teach the polyrhythmic multipart version that illustrates the Afro-Indo influence.
---SUDASI (Lebanese and Palestinian) is used for Dabka unisex line dance. Karim will teach this unique yet common 6/4 rhythm with variations to accent stomp choreographies.

RIQQ (ARAB TAMBOURINE): : Sunday 3:30pm - 5:30pm, $25 at door only.
The "Riqq" tambourine is the lead percussion instrument in the Arabic orchestra and classical ensemble. It is played with the fingers on
both the skin and the cymbals. The technique calls for three different holding positions and techniques. In addition to Arabic music, these
instruments are widely used in Turkish, Iranian, Balkan, Gypsy and Mediterranean music. Students will learn technique, stamina, rhythmic
repertoire and various ethnic styles.

Karim Nagi is recognized as one of the foremost performers of the Arabic style Riqq in the USA. He has performed Riqq with the Sharq Ensemble, Chicago Oriental Ensemble, Boston Camerata, and Simon Shaheen. He has taught Riqq at the New England Conservatory, Tufts University, and Arabic Music Retreat and the Heartland Seminar on Arab Music. He has authored a comprehensive Instructional Riqq
DVD www.riqqdvd.com

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 7 replies

a different double ka technique, starting with a tek (light speed triolet)

2008-05-03T22:57:42Z

hi all,

i just read the qarshi topic and watched the video performed by faisal zedan... how impressive!

my master Ali Alaoui (Morocco) taught me a different way to play the "kkt" (double ka tek).
i think it is simpler, although it looks harder when written.
actually, it is played with a "tek" before the double ka, like a very fast triolet.

for example, with the moroccan chaabi :
T-t3t-T-D-t-
or with the saidi :
D-T-t3D-D-t3T-t3

here, the "3" means "kk" (double k).
I call it "3" because with the tek it's like a triolet (tkk), but much faster!
you have to play "tek ka ka" in the space of "ka ka" (usual double ka).
playing a "tek" before the double ka helps a lot to "trigger" the double ka, even if you have to play it faster to fit the beat space.
i would call it a "point d'appui" in french, but i can't translate it, sorry ;-)

for qarshi, it would be :
t3t-k-t-
instead of the usual :
kkt-k-t-

by the way, Ali Alaoui taught me the same technique for "rads" (rak) :
rak is played tek ra tek, where "ra" is ring-middle-index.

so every ornementation starts with a soft tek and ends with a plain tek, which is very helpfull to fill simple beats.
well, i think it's easier, because starting everything from a tek seems less awkward to me than with ka.
(but of course, this is theory, and there are many cases where a starting "ka" is preferable)

besides, for the double ka and raks, a starting tek is so beautiful!
the sound is longer than double ka or rak alone, and fills better the "hole" in the rhythm.

BEST OF ALL, "tek ka ka tek" instead of "ka ka tek" is so pleasant to play, because you play ternary beat (one beat divided in 3 parts) among binary ones (like a triolet at light speed), but nobody hears it. I LOVE THAT!!
the feeling is pure dope!

finally, with the starting tek, you can use and write each one the same way.
for example with masmoudi souraier :
simple (tkt)
D---D-tkt-k-t-k-D-tkt-k-t-tkt-k-
tris (tkkt)
D---D-t3t-k-t-k-D-t3t-k-t-t3t-k-
rads (rak)
D---D-tRt-k-t-k-D-tRt-k-t-tRt-k-
rolls (tktkt)
D---D-tWt-k-t-k-D-tWt-k-t-tWt-k-

3 = kk
R = ring-middle-index
W = ktk

well, hope it makes sense... anyone using this technique??

yan

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 9 replies

Funny Rehearsal

2008-05-02T19:33:50Z

This is me and the awesome Gilad Amsalem fooling around with 9/8 at my home studio.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cM8RwCGNSNY

*Waiving to Kobi Hagoel* Hope you are proud of your students!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 23 replies

Think you can drum? ;)

2008-05-02T19:19:00Z

Think again after this vid, hee, hee:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=7Ud8FwxfqaU

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 12 replies

KEVORK NEW WEB SITE

2008-05-01T15:43:52Z

Hello everyone.
I am preparing a new web site form Mr. Kevork.
I decide to make him a new web site because I think he deserves a nice web site with lots of pictures, video clips and more.
Trying to get in touch with Mr. Kevork is rather difficult due to fact he is very busy man so I will try to put as much information on the web site as possible to help people understand the way it works to get his instruments.

So I am writing to you all good people if you could help me gather some pictures and videos you have with Kevork instruments (riq, darbuka, table and more). If you have a Kevork riq please make a photo and I will put it to his web site.
If you know someone has some videos or photos just email me.
Any help to make the GALLERY section will be appreciated.

Thanks

Julian

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 10 replies

Hüseyin Karabulut - Darbuka Videos

2008-05-01T07:21:02Z

Didn't see him on any discussions so I thought I'd point out this great player. These instructional type videos have been around a little while but some of you may be new to them. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1BvfNGbtx8&feature=related

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

Faisal Zedan - 'Qarshi' Demonstration

2008-05-01T05:25:52Z

Here is Faisal demoing three ways to do the 'qarshi' technique.

Thanks Faisal!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d37yoBGHY7g

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 13 replies

American Frame Drum Gathering (New instructors and schedule added)

2008-04-29T23:48:24Z

See new instructors and schedule here: http://www.guerguerian.com/AFDG2008.pdf

Also see: http://www.framedrums.org/

Should be a great event.

Bill Smith
www.myspace.com/sonicmetals

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

New Raquy Doumbek/Dumbek/Tablah Available

2008-04-29T04:38:07Z

Hello,

I have a nice, brand new Raqay 4-lug doumbek (GeF w/ mylar head) available if anyone is interested.

I can send you photos.

I'm not looking to make any money, just looking to break even, or would also be willing to take a small loss.

I have many other drums and this one just isn't getting played very much. Great looking drum, great sounding. Nothing wrong with it. Looking in the neighborhood of $150.00. Let me know if you're interested.

Thanks,

Matthew

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Morrocan Trance

2008-04-28T20:22:49Z

Just listened to: "The Master Musicians of Joujouka – Joujouka Black Eyes". The CD is one of my all-time favorites (recorded 1994). As far as I can remember the master musicians of joujouka only little have been mentioned in this tribe. I would therefore highly recommend them.

http://joujouka.net

http://www.amazon.com/Joujouka-Black-Eyes-Master-Musicians/dp/B0000240SR/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1207137839&sr=8-9

http://youtube.com/watch?v=KdZZw1U9UX0
http://youtube.com/watch?v=S4z_cWeCg-M
http://youtube.com/watch?v=-l9m8gmBask
http://youtube.com/watch?v=3ON55MJ55pY

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 8 replies

Forearm resistance training with powerball gyroscope

2008-04-28T13:42:54Z

I bought one of these powerball gyroscopes yesterday because I decided to put my money where my mouth is and increase my forearm strength to see if it will improve my drumming.

Us Website
http://www.powerballs.com/music.php?m=Benefits

Australian website
http://www.powerballs.com.au/

It wasn't until I read the blurb on the box that it is recommended for drummers and other musicians which made me very happy. So far the reviews I've read are from guitarists. Has any drummers here used this?

My left forearm is slightly hurting today. It's quite addictive using the ball and I think I overdid it. Also have to remember to have my can of tuna before bed to provide the protein the body needs to repair and strengthen the muscle.

I've also figured out that to isolation the muscles for the Ka hand you have to hold the ball only with your pinky, ring finger and thumb. Otherwise you ted to only really grip the ball with your middle, index finger and thumb.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 6 replies

Fast Hands

2008-04-23T18:23:51Z

I just exchanged some emails with this drummer, Faisal Zedan, on youtube and he is not using a split finger technique. Fast hands in my book!

http://tinyurl.com/4u479a

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 78 replies

Drum Vid - Mahmoud El Masri (Egypt) and Renê Heluany (Brasil) - Doumbek, Djembe and a BellyDancer

2008-04-23T04:05:48Z

Hope enjoy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S65WSsvo76g

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 1 reply

My last Drum Vids

2008-04-22T21:01:44Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JY6eSOk9mZ4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2d_G5pxSDo

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies

Azeri darbuka

2008-04-22T20:48:00Z

Azeri Turks grooving hard; fun solos!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=GZ4Brm6urIs

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 7 replies

Any Mizmar players out there?

2008-04-22T17:56:41Z

i'm just beginning to venture out into the world beyond percussion, as i just bought a mizmar from the egyptian musicians accompanying Leila Haddad at her recent show at UCLA. now that i have it, i need to find some sort of book on how to play scales and such. any suggestions???

thanks much,
-crowhawk

btw- i am not giving up percussion as i am a drummer first and foremost. if i didn't have a girlfriend, i'd be homeless. true story.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 5 replies

Waha kabir? (Souhail Kaspar)

2008-04-22T06:45:48Z

I just finished a class with Souhail Kaspar, and after several hours of intense drumming between several hours of noisy car ride, my brain is a bit fried.

We covered what I thought he called Waha Kabir, which is very similar to traditional Masmoodi Kabir.

I wrote down this:

D LRRLR LRRLR L (the pause after the dum is shorter than the other 2)

The second half is the second half of Masmoodi.

He put all this together with Masmoodi, and then added a double-tek variant, which is probably where I mentally lost track of things, although I could mostly play it at the time.

My son wrote down D LRRLRRLRRLR L as the double-tek variant, because I remember it had 3 double-rights (see, I told you my brain was fried).

Does anyone know more about this rhythm, or have the notation for the traditional Masmoodi as Souhail teaches it, especially as it fits with the above rhythm?

For the record, I've been playing the "2 beat Masmoodi" Daveed Korup style for years -

D D TktkT D tktkt tktkt tk - and that's not quite what we were playing.

Tomorrow this will probably sound like a dumb question even to me, but I wanted to get it down before the sleep fairies took it away.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 29 replies

Tribal Caravan 2008 (Crammed with hand perc mix : traditionalists beware warning)

2008-04-21T19:33:29Z

I'm performing at this years TC again with the GF. I just finished up the track I will be performing live percussion on top off. These festivals always crack me up. After they see us perform people are never sure what to think. =)
I've been getting up early this week to pound this out. I like how it's coming so far.

http://www.rhythminmind.net/audio/Rhythm%20In%20Mind/2008/RhythmInMind-cram.mp3

This mix has the hand percussion i will be playing next weekend. (Doumbek & Cajon)

I had a HELL of a time trying to get the perc to sit in the mix the way i wanted to. I am to stubborn and refuse to cut any frequency holes out of the original sound of the mix. So what do i do? Get pissed off, say screw it and overly CRAM it in there any way it can fit! I can't deal with it anymore =). But one good thing came out that tho. The title. "Cram"
So forgive the overly crammed mix & enjoy. (i'll make a better mix once my ears are recovered & I calm down. Classic case of Musician mixing own material syndrome)
I love the part @ 1:25 when the Cajon comes in tho. It's my new toy just purchased for this performance.
Shes pretty

http://www.schlagwerk.com/img/cajones/Cajon_CP_4007_Wurzel.jpg

Track info
Track length 4:35
VBR - MP3

Stuff used..
Live 7 & built in FX
operator
zebra2
string studio
sampler
drum triggers & drum rack (all drum sounds are played live except the 808 kick that you will hear randomly)
ohmicide
4-band divider
urs csp
GF's Bra
Fabrik R
Fabrik C
Softtube feedback
am-track
am-phibia
ADM
ozone
Doumbex & Cajon
and i'm sure other oddities.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Rim & Shamber (Bearing) Question ?

2008-04-21T15:27:20Z

My synthetic head sounded dull and the rim sat below the shamber (bearing ring), by about a 2-3 mm. I rejuvenated it by using a hair dryer on the head (carefully shrinking the plastic) , refit the head and now the rim and the bearing are level and the drum sounds great again.The question is, should the rim of the darbuka sit above, level or below the shamber. One of my thoughts is that as the head wears the lower the rim sits until the rim meets the body, then you need a new head. Any thoughts ........

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 6 replies

Looking for a wireless system

2008-04-21T08:20:52Z

Hi all,

I want to buy a wireless system with a clip-mounted mic - those usually are targeted to pickup a wind instruments, but the mic also can be mounted on darbuka. I don't mind used systems, so if anyone has one for sale, please leave me a message or email at jury@softshape.com.

Thanks,
Jury.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Wanted old fishskin riqs

2008-04-18T15:53:28Z

Dear fellow percussionists, I'm looking for an old fashioned fish skin riq, the antique inlaid type. The condition is not a big factor, as I'm learning how to restore them and replace the skin as a hobby. If you have one to sell, please email me pictures at johnnyfarraj@yahoo.com.
best to all
Johnny

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Darbuka DrumHeads - So many Types and options!! Which one is known to be Authentic or the Professional Type??

2008-04-18T06:10:25Z

Hi all,
Can anyone shed some light on this topic and educate me please.
I have been searching the net trying to educate myself as I am looking to purchase a Darbuka in the very near future, and so far I have not been able to find full details on what makes the Darbuka face DrumHead and what is considered a professional out there??

Also wanted a professional input on what makes a good Authentic Darbuka out there!!
there are so many listed on line to choose from and prices are all over the place.

in your opinion what is the best or authentic Drum head for a darbuka:
Synthetic, Mylor, FishSkin, GoatSkin , Remo FiberSkin or Standard Synthetic???
which one do you advice for?

many Thanks

From CANADA

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 9 replies

Armenian Dhol

2008-04-16T19:28:15Z

Check out these wicked, wicked guys:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=t9ziZlv1Pio&feature=related

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 1 reply

2 tix available Raquy Danziger/Liron Peled workshop Tribal Fest

2008-04-16T15:31:51Z

My dumbek partner and I have 2 tix to this sold out class at the fabulous Tribal Fest - it's Fri. 5/16, 12:45 - 2:45 p.m., in Sebastopol, CA, $33 each thru PayPal (this is exactly what we paid for them) - they recently scheduled a workshop in our actual town so we're going to that one instead

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 1 reply

New Kevork riq for sale

2008-04-12T05:26:53Z

Dear fellow percussionists,
I'm selling a brand new Kevork riq on eBay.
It's so new you can still smell the lacquer!
Item number: 260228598814.
Any questions, please email me at johnnyfarraj@yahoo.com.
take care
Johnny

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 10 replies

Anybody going to Fifi Abdo in Dallas next weekend?

2008-04-10T20:25:02Z

I'd love to meet some of you guys if anyone in the area is gonna be around!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 15 replies

Going to Egypt and hope to study

2008-04-10T16:05:02Z

Hi all, I'm going to Egypt this summer, staying in Cairo for 3 months, and I'm hoping to study doumbek with a great tabla player there. Any suggestions on who is over there and how to contact them? Although I'm very familiar with middle eastern dance I'm not so up to date on tabla players. I may also be looking for an oud instructor.
Thanks!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 19 replies

ملتف رق‎

2008-04-10T15:15:06Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBGIQ7ZuuiU

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 4 replies

Split finger - Traditional context vids

2008-04-10T07:55:52Z

Here is an example of the turkish split-finger in a traditional context: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QizpfeRmqL4&feature=related

Turkish Georgians and Turkoman(plus Zazas) have this sort of drum; the name Tumbek reflects its relation to the Persian Tombak. Thus the 6/8 rhyths common to this music:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_PCxCOOPVg

Thses are some of the sources for left-hand technique that Misirli Ahmet has drawn from...and re-inspired.

Great stuff!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 9 replies

Split finger injuries

2008-04-08T21:45:14Z

Just wanted to put out a warning of an injury common to Turkish split-finger technique. It is common to damage the ulnar nerve near the elbow or at the wrist. This can result in temporary or permanent numbness of the ring and small finger of each hand. The rotations and tendon stresses of frequent practice are a real danger, especially if you practice 4 or more hours a day.

The simple solution is stretching. If you are an Aikido or Ju jitsu practitioner, you have the best arm stretches available to you. Also, the Yoga prayer pose is recommended. Also, the palm slapping technique that Souhail teaches is a must every day.

Also, while practicing, you should maintain a good, clean, firm stroke, but absolutely relaxed at all times. If you tense up in order to try to force the technique, not only will it take longer to master it, it can really be damaging.

As this type of warning isn't that common(but really important), I thought I'd spread the word.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 6 replies

Here's a guy demonstrating some arabic rhythms

2008-04-07T15:14:08Z

I liked it - he goes over rhythms I haven't heard before in addition to the stuff I already know - nice!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSfo5Fr0-oQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDJn40x4sSs

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 1 reply

Carmine's workshop in Charlotte

2008-04-07T02:03:53Z

I just wanted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed Carmine's workshop this past weekend. For me it was a great lesson that has helped me understand better how to get out of the drum circle mentality and organize my playing to a level that will get people grooving. Carmine has a very straight forward, almost simplistic, but very effective way to make a performance happen. And when I say happen I mean getting people up dancing and singing. Carmine rocked Charlotte's belly dance community(as well as our local turkish restaurant) this weekend and I'm looking forward to the next opportunity to learn from him.

Don't pass up the opportunity if he comes your way!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

New hand thrown "Ceramic" drums with synthetic heads

2008-04-05T13:28:43Z

Allright Y'all. I've been waiting to make a post about this until I got these drums to the level of quality that I wanted. I'm putting synthetic heads on my hand thrown ceramic drums now. They sound great and play nicely and are made thick and heavy. I don't have a lot of them right now but I will be continually making them. The drums in this photo are between 17 and 18" tall. The playing surface on all of them are exactly 8" with the widest part being about 10.5". My next generation will be slightly larger in diameter with a playing surface of 9" but I can make them basically any size to order. The tuning will be fixed. Heads are replaceable. Check 'em out.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 16 replies

You don't like drumming as much as this guy.... (slightly ot)

2008-04-04T21:59:43Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPWjNX4PBlI

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 15 replies

Riq hacks

2008-04-02T16:28:26Z

I read with interest the post about switching out the jingles on a riq so the different positions each have a different sound. I love that idea. Has anyone done other interesting modifications to the riq? Wooden jingles? Anything else to get different sounds out? Dampers for the jingles? Enquiring minds want to know. :)

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 1 reply

Souhail, Ziva, and Rachid Halihal Workshop and Show - Durham, NC April 19-20

2008-03-30T15:19:14Z

This is a reminder to everyone that I'm hosting Souhail Kaspar here in North Carolina the weekend of April 19-20. Full details and registration/tickets are here:

Workshop: www.halobellydance.com/souhail.html
Show: www.halobellydance.com/souhail_show.html

This has snowballed into a 2-day workshop with separate drum, dance, and music tracks (the latter taught by Rachid Halihal). Saturday night there's a big show in a nice theater that will feature Rachid's music as well as various classic Arabic pieces interpreted by Ziva and some of the best regional dancers. Oud player Naji Hilal and frame drummer Majdi Kurd will round out the sound.

I hope to see some of you there!

Cheers,

John

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

sticky residue/logo removal

2008-03-28T15:48:20Z

My apologies if this has been addressed previously, otherwise...I've got a Gef head for my standard sized doumbek and it has sticky residue on it - like where tape was. What is a good solvent for this problem that won't damage the head? I was thinking maybe acetone/nail polish remover. Also, is there a preferred way to remove the painted logo from these mylar heads in addition to the sticky stuff???
Cheers!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 5 replies

Skyndeep on GeF - which size ?

2008-03-27T14:50:24Z

Hi all,

skyndeep heads now are available in 8 5/8, 8 3/4, and 8 23/32 inch sizes. Which size should I buy to put it on standard sized GeF darbuka ?

Thanks,
Jury.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 35 replies

Blinded by the Light... of Pharos!

2008-03-27T05:59:05Z

Alrighty then lovely dancers and cool bro drummers, here is the low down announcement of the Pharos event's workshops and some general info and more. Enjoy!

Workshops:

AFRICAN DANCE FOR BELLY DANCERS
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008 from 1:30pm to 3:00pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio
Instructor:
Mabiba Baegne

One of the best and well known African dancers/drummers/singers, Mabiba Baegne, will be in town on Sunday June 15th to teach ONE WORKSHOP ONLY at the Mystic Jewell Studio at 1:30pm (as part of Pharos). This is the rarest of opportunities to learn from the best. And, she knows that many of your are belly dancers, so her dance class has you in mind.

Beyond that, this is the only dance class that is taught to LIVE drummers, courtesy of AZ Drum and Dance. She's gonna work you out and rock your world. I'm fairly certain that every instructor for Pharos is taking this class (depending on schedule), so you won't be alone. New horizons and mixing it up... that's what it's all about. Check out the BIO below (workshop price $35. Registration available at www.Trashcityentertainment.com under Pharos):

Mabiba Baegne was born in Brazzaville in the Congo and was initiated
into dance by her grandparents when she was eight years old.

She joined the National Ballet of the Congo with Bolle Bantu. She worked as artistic director, choreographer and taught dancing, drumming and singing plus performed with children (from kindergarten through university level) and also with adults.

Mabiba has worked under the tutelage of Grand Master Djembe players Famoudou Konate and Mamady Keita. Mabiba has toured and performed with both djembe players. She teamed with Mamady in the famous Zig Zag School of African dancing and drumming in Belgium.

As a singer she has toured with Salif Keita, Mamady Keita, and Samba Ngo. She appeared on television and radio programs singing with well-known French singer, France Gall. She is a featured singer on Mamady's first CD ("Wassolon") and was a member of Sewa Kan. For many years, Mabiba has been in high demand as a dance and drumming teacher throughout the United States.

In the United States, Mabiba has been instrumental in teaching Central and West African dancing and singing. As well as the first woman to teach traditional West African (Guinea) dununs in the U.S. She was the first woman to produce a dunun training tape here. She has given Master classes at Stanford, San Francisco State, Oregon State, University of Washington (Seattle), UC Santa Cruz, Mills College (Oakland), etc.

Among her US performances, was her role as "Djinga (the King Queen of Angola)" at Brooklyn Academic of Music, in Minneapolis, MN, at the Shakespeare Center in Washington, DC and at Mills College (Oakland).

ZILS & FRAMES:
(Saturday, June 14th, 2008 from 12:30 to 2:00pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio ($25)
Instructor: Raquy & The Cavemen

This class will be broken up between zil instruction and frame drum instruction (riqq, tar, etc.). It's a dancer friendly percussion class that will teach zil technique and patterns to many common rhythms. Towards the end, the class will focus on frame drums and perhaps we'll all just jam :)

BEGINNER DUMBEK (122)
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008, from 9:00am to 11:00am)
The Mystic Jewell Studio (Flamenco Studio) $35
Instructor: Raquy Danziger

This class will incorporate the following: How to hold the drum, basic sounds (dum, tek, ka), traditional rhythms, accompaniment of Middle-Eastern songs and dance, and some basic concepts in soloing.

INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED DUMBEK (270)
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008, from 1:30pm to 3:30pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio (Flamenco) $35
Instructor: Raquy Danziger

This workshop will focus on: Odd rhythms, snaps, different types of finger rolls, and Turkish Split Hand Technique, as well as address more about solos and accompaniment. This is your class drummers. Ask lots of questions. Raquy is like totally the most coolest and nicest person, so don't be shy.

Raquy Danziger is one of the most popular performers, teachers and composers of Middle Eastern Drumming today. Audiences worldwide are not only surprised by this young woman from America, but captivated by her virtuosity, profound musicality and the passion she brings to performances. Her varied repertoire includes traditional Middle Eastern music as well as her own compositions.

For the past few years, Raquy has been going to Egypt to teach and perform, where she has collaborated with some of the most famous musicians, including Said El-Artist and Hamish Henkish, she has appeared on regional TV including Al-Jazeera Channel and National Egyptian Television and was interviewed by numerous magazines.

A classically trained pianist, Raquy first discovered hand drumming during her travels in Varanase, India where she immersed herself in the study of Indian rhythmic cycles. Later, in Israel, Raquy was drawn to the dumbek (otherwise known as tabla) and the groove of Middle Eastern music.

In the last few years, Raquy has found her own voice as a soloist, group leader and composer. She writes compositions for ensembles comprised of her students as well as master players from the Middle East. She also formed Raquy and the Cavemen, a group in which she also plays the Iranian kemenche, a rare and exotic bowed instrument.

Raquy’s infectious enthusiasm for Middle Eastern music has made her one of the most sought after teachers of Middle Eastern drumming. An inspiration to scores of students locally and hundreds more at drumming camps and retreats around the country, Raquy is single–handedly responsible for the wave of “Dumbek Fever” sweeping the metropolitan area.

Raquy has released a Dumbek Instructional Kit - "Dumbek Fever" - which includes a book, a DVD and a CD that's selling all over the world. She also released 4 albums: "Naked" (2007), “Jordan” (2005), “Dust” (2003) and “Masmudi” (2001). “Dust” has reached the top 20 on the CMJ world chart and "Jordan" debuted at the top 30.

Raquy and the Cavemen allow the listener to experience the musical cultures from The Middle East and Egypt and fuse them with Liron Peled's hard rock drumming background. The name Cavemen is appropriate due to the rawness of the beats, and there is also a timeless property to the music that makes it impossible to dislike. The whole experience of the music takes you on a journey to the roots of Middle Eastern drumming. Its sound is like a close stare into the eyes and soul of the Middle Eastern culture that lives inside the music. Raquy brings forth the experience of an ancient culture straight to the stage for everyone to reflect, react and rotate to.

BASIC DJEMBE TECHNIQUES
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008, from 11:30am to 1:00pm)
The Mystic Jewell (Flamenco) $35
Instructor: Bernd Geh

Bernd Geh is the founder and head of Arizona Drum and Dance. He is also the only (or one of very very few)Mammady Keita sanctioned djembe instructors in Arizona.

This class will teach the the proper hand techniques: The dun and gun (bass), the go and do (tones), and the pa and ta (slaps) of the djembe, as well as dive into various African rhythms and poly-rhythms. If you don't have a djembe, there are up to 10 available for use courtesy of AZ Drum and Dance.

BERND GEH has been continuously teaching West African drumming since 2001 in the Phoenix area. Bernd is originally from Germany and started to study the Malinke music in 1997 with his major and most influential teacher Herman Kathan, who is a professional drummer and represents Tam-Tam Mandinge Germany, which is a branch of Mamady Keita's worldwide djembe school network.

Bernd also learned from numerous African masters and teachers, such as Mamady Keita, Famoudou Konate, Adama Drame, Amadou Kienou, Moussa Traore, Abdoul Doumbia and Bolokada Conde.

Bernd is currently a professional level student of Mamady Keita and certified instructor.

But wait, there's more!

DYNAMIC TRIBAL IMPROV
(Saturday, June 14th, 2008, from 11:00am to 12:30pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $35
Instructor: Christina of HANDS OF KALI

This workshop will concentrate on the important interplay between short, "simple" moves and longer combos in tribal improv. The relationship of these different types of moves, with multi-tempo music, brings a lively dynamic to any group improv. After high-energy drills on shimmies and zills, this class will move right into an intensive tribal bellydance workout guaranteed to make you sweat and smile, all at the same time. Suitable for dancers at all skill levels.

STEAM PUNK CHOREOGRAPHY
(Saturday, June 14th, 2008, from 3:30pm to 5:00pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $35
Instructor: Maureen of HANDS OF KALI

What is "Steampunk"?

Steampunk is a subgenre of fantasy and speculative fiction which came into prominence in the 1980s and early 1990s. The term denotes works set in an era or world where steam power is still widely used—usually the 19th century, and often set in Victorian era England—but with prominent elements of either science fiction or fantasy, such as fictional technological inventions like those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne, or real technological developments like the computer occurring at an earlier date. Other examples of steampunk contain alternate history-style presentations of "the path not taken" of such technology as dirigibles or analog computers; these frequently are presented in an idealized light, or a presumption of functionality. It has now manifested itself into fashion and music.

Learn an original, steam-punk-inspired Hands of Kali choreography to the song "Proper Hoodidge" by Amon Tobin--perform it solo, as a troupe, or just pick and choose the combinations that you want to add to your dance repertoire. We will do a quick yoga warm-up (bring a mat if you have one); then learn the 3-minute routine, which alternates slinky moves with pops and locks. Handouts with choreography notes will be provided.

BLADES DOWN: FLOORWORK IN SWORD DANCE
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008, 3:30pm to 5:00pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $35
Instructor: Kendra, the head of HANDS OF KALI

Learn the unique Hands of Kali method for combining sensual floorwork with the beautiful danger of sword dance. We'll examine methods of getting down to the floor and raising back up after your floorwork segment, as well as learning 4 different sword/floorwork combos. We'll use moves from yoga and pilates for our opening stretch and warm-up and our closing stretch and cool-down. Appropriate for all levels of bellydancers and beyond. Please bring your sword, a yoga mat or towel, and kneepads if you have them. If you wish to take the workshop but have no sword, Kendra may be able to loan you one; email her at kendra@handsofkali.com to inquire.

Get ready for the World's most innovative, contemporary, fresh, skilled, and dare I say... Darkest Belly Dance Troupe in existence. Formed in 2003, Hands of Kali are out to make a statement... lead, Follow, or get out of the way. Under the direction of Kendra, you will be challenged and you will overcome (she will make you). Your horizons will be broadened, you will learn, you will appreciate... and you, yes you, will be infinitely better for surviving it... and Kendra and The Hands of Kali will be there for you, supporting you along the way with patience and praise.

PRECISION FLOW: STOP ON A DIME, BEND SPACE AND TIME
(Saturday, June 14th, 2008 from 9:00am to 10:30am)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $30
Instructor: Bastet

This fun, sassy, and challenging workshop integrates the modern precision of "hits" from pop-n-lock, the timeless grace of bellydance, and the mesmerizing appearance of "flow"-a distorted sense of time-into your fusion repertoire. Classic Egyptian Cabaret, Tribal fusion, and ATS stylings are transformed into an energetic and hypnotic performance with "hits" (or "pops") that melt seamlessly into excruciatingly slow transitions called "flow" that seem to bend time, leaving your audience breathless until you travel back into normal space and time.

DOUBLE FAN FUSION
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008, from 9:00am to 10:30am)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $30
Instructor: Bastet

Bastet first picked up a pair of fans in 1999 to bring something new to the urban dance scene in Florida. Fusing her urban stylings with subsequent training in Egyptian Cabaret, Tribal Fusion, and American Tribal Style, Bastet creates powerful and dynamic performances. Well-known for her exciting double fan performances throughout the southeastern United States and her new home in New Mexico, Bastet teaches the use of props and layers as an extension of your natural movement, creating graceful, powerful, and fluid performances. Until her recent move, Bastet was a performer with the tribal fusion troupe, The Dance of the Fates (now Jahara Phoenix), based outside of Atlanta, GA.

Last but certainly not least, there are workshops from the famous, talented, and beautiful DIOSA!!! She doesn't do workshops that often, but has agreed to do two workshops at PHAROS! What a treat! Here they are:

POP AND DROP: BELLY HIP-HOP
(Saturday, June 14th, 2008, from 1:30pm to 3:00pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $30
Instructor: Diosa Holmes

This fun and entertaining workshop consists of belly dance combinations fused with hip hop movements. Students join combinations into a complete choreography, with the ability to use the finished piece for their own performing events. A brief explanation is provided on how to diagram a song and choreograph to music (a template will be provided).

THUMP & DRUM: PULSATE TO PERCUSSION
(Sunday, June 15th, 2008, from 11:00am to 12:30pm)
The Mystic Jewell Studio $30
Instructor: Diosa Holmes

This enjoyable and slightly challenging workshop incorporates many classic and modern elements of the "drum solo" performance. Students incorporate locking techniques, sharp muscle control, and expressive traveling movements to develop a stylized and complete choreographed piece that can be performed to any 4/4 rhythm. A brief explanation is provided on how to diagram a song and choreograph to music (a template will be provided).

That's it! There ya go Phoenix drum and dance community (and beyond). Four drum workshops and eight dance workshops from some of the best talent around. Wow, a bunch of drummers and dancers congregating in one place learning and mingling... it's like a collegiate hafla.

I feel as if I'm missing something though...

Oh yeah! There is the Pharos LIVE! show on Saturday night (June 14th, 2008, at 7:30pm at The Sets in Tempe). What is Pharos LIVE? Well, it's seven local and national ethnic music groups (with a lot of drumming) gathering in one place for one event... with dancers galore, and all for one incredible, once in a lifetime, show. Acts include (and in no particular order):

Raquy and The Cavemen performing with Diosa, Bastet, and Hands of Kali

The White Claws performing with The Desert Flowers, Satori Sunrise, and Anaya Tribal

Of the Earth performing with their dancers

Soleil Noir performing with Deja Dance

Arizona Drum and Dance throwin' it down with African dancers

Cosmos performing with their dancers

and Traveler performing with their dancers.

Special performance by Katara, audience tarot reading by Hands of Kali, hookas, alcohol, more alcohol, a Moroccan market with various venders, and last but not least... more alcohol. It's like an SCA event gone horribly right! C'mon, that was funny.

Perhaps... just perhaps, more will be added.

Vending space is available at The Sets. Contact Chris @ www.trashcityentertainment.com

Vending space is available at The Mystic Jewell Studio. Contact Missy @ The Mystic Jewell or Colleen via Tribe.

There are killer discount packages available for workshops:

The "ANY THREE" discount allows one to take any 3 workshops (drum or dance) for $80. Considering the talent involved, that's pretty damn cheap!

The Pharos MEGA DISCOUNT is for dancers that want it all. There are no conflicts in the scheduling of the dance workshops. If you want to take all eight of them, the price is $180. That's nearly a $100 savings.

General admission for the Pharos LIVE! show is $25. Keep in mind that the price includes two (yes two) free drinks from the bar... anything you want. HA! You're welcome.

VIP/Reserved seating for Pharos LIVE is $40. You get a table vs. auditorium seating or standing room only. Again, the price includes two free drinks from the bar... anything you want (lush). Hey, we be cool like dat!

Tickets and workshop registration is available online at this link:

trashcityentertainment.com/cata...x.php

Unfortunately, there are unavoidable on-line banking (convenience) fees. However, you can also order tickets over the phone by calling Trash City Entertainment @ 602-399-9500.

Unfortunately, this Pharos event isn't that big. Instead, it is merely friggin' HUGE! Your chances of seeing Raquy & The Cavemen live outside of New York, Cairo, or the San Francisco area are slim to none, and Slim has his bags already packed. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see and learn from Raquy and Hands of Kali and all the Pharos instructors. This event is tre' sick. Wait 'til you see Pharos II (evil laugh).

Pharos burns for YOU! Jump in the fire!

Pharos is brought to you by Trash City Entertainment in conjunction with The White Claws and Drumopelli.

Pharos is:

The White Claws
Anaya Tribal
Of the Earth
The Desert Flowers
Satori Sunrise

Producer/Director: Drumopelli

Stage Manager: Valerie Olinger

Treasurer: Veronica Baxter

Workshop Coordinator (NEW!): Colleen

Special thanks goes to Linda Machado (Flamenco Studio) and Missy (The Mystic Jewell Studio), for hosting Pharos workshops. BTW, those two studios are right next door to each other.

Pharos... it's not just a lighthouse anymore!

Also remember that Elissa is hosting The Big Hafla w/ Souhail Kasper and Rachid Halihah on May 3rd. GO TO IT! Do it. Do it now.

Pharos exists at all because of the inspiration garnered from watching Elissa work her magic over the past year or so with regard to her promotional endeavors. Elissa is one of our heroes (heroins... like the drug). Everyone give Elissa some applause, some kudos if you will. Seriously, with out her guidance and fortitude... there would be no Pharos. She has paved the way. This community owes her a huge debt of gratitude.

Thank you for your time...

Finis

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 1 reply

Phoenix - May 3rd, Big Hafla with Souhail Kaspar and Rachid Halihal

2008-03-27T02:21:59Z

Hi, everyone, I just wanted to update you with information on the upcoming hafla and workshops with Souhail Kaspar. He will be here the weekend of May 3rd and 4th. (Please disregard the earlier date. We had to move it back one weekend). The hafla will be a dance party with Souhail and Rachid Halihal. Also some local musicians, some featured dancers, some wonderful vending by Fashionable Movement and Anaya Tribal, oh yeah, and LOTS of dancing for party attendies. Fun, fun, fun!

More info will come later, and I have updated the website: www.phoenixhafla.com

Also, don't forget to cheer Souhail on on February 10th for the 50th Grammy award show! He has been nominated for this year's Grammy in World Music for his work with Rahim Alhaj in "When the Soul is Settled: The Music of Iraq."

If you have any questions, ideas, or want to volunteer, please drop me a line. I can't wait to see everyone in a few months!

Elissa

P.S. I will once again be performing with Nawari Dance and Music Ensemble at the Arizona Rennaissance Festival every weekend from Feb 9th to March 31st. If you're out there, please come by and say hello!

P.P.S. The next Midnight Caravan event will be October 17th-19th, 2008.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 2 replies

Drum forsale

2008-03-26T00:18:24Z

Got a copper colored aluminum drum not GEF or anything super nice. Would be good for taking out and not worrying about. No case or extra heads. Has a few chips off of it going out to a drum jam in a muddy ren faire this is the drum for you. Make offer plus shipping unless yuo want to come and get it. I live north of Dallas in Texas.

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 0 replies

Indian rhythms on doumbek/frame drum?

2008-03-24T14:41:19Z

Hey everyone. A local Indian dance group has asked my drum class to play for them at a performace some time. I want to get everyone working on some rhythms that might work well in this setting. Does anyone have links or suggestions to rhythms that would work well for Indian dance or specifically Indian rhythms that play well on doumbek and/or frame drums?

Thanks!
Mark

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 14 replies

Darbuka Videos

2008-03-23T16:28:08Z

I am wondering what you all have found in the way of other websites that have darbuka videos.

YouTube is currently banned in Turkey. Although prior bans didn't last long one never knows when it will happen again.

AND I NEED MY DARBUKA VIDEO FIX NOW, DANGIT!

now, can a nice sistah or brothah out there help me?

xox
david

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 23 replies

drummer needed in Bmore area

2008-03-23T13:56:33Z

Hi all- we have a community hafla every month where belly dancers are dancing and belly dancers are the audience, and it's all very wonderful and community warm and fuzzy.. usually Andy, aka Rashid Aladeen, leads the drum circle, but April 6 he will be at a Santana concert and I am leaderless. Okay, the bad news is it is not a paid gig, but you do get a fantastic Indian buffet, and 2 hours of dancing entertainment and our thanks...
We would love to have any additional musicians, any time! It's a great show- top name local performers and just starting out dancers, too. Here's the website:
www.AllSeasonsHafla.com and you can contact me directly at 443-834-3191, ninadances@gmail.com
Thanks for considering it!

posted in Middle Eastern Percussion - 3 replies