Middle Eastern and North African Rhythms

Adult Group Class / Drumming Program

In this class, experience the vibrant and diverse world of Middle Eastern and North African rhythms.

You’ll be introduced to traditional percussion instruments (darbouka, riqq, bendir), learn the language of the drum, and play popular, folk, and classical rhythms heard throughout the MENA region. These rhythms are the foundation of these deeply rooted musical traditions.

Rhythms are taught through the language of the drum (Doum, Tek and Es). Learn how to say the sounds clearly while playing, how to visualize their structure, and how to internalize their phrasing so they feel natural and expressive. Students learn where these rhythms come from, how they function musically, and how they are passed down through long-standing traditions.

The material is adaptable to any hand drum, making the course accessible to drummers and musicians of all backgrounds. Emphasis is placed on relaxed technique, confidence, and musical continuity, allowing students to move fluidly between rhythms and play with clarity and ease. Beyond technique, this method treats drumming as a tool for focus, stress relief, and personal expression.

Grouped with: Percussion