Middle Eastern Drumming

Most people are familiar with the usual sound of a drum circle. You may have even joined in once or twice. But did you know that the usual rhythms at drum circles are really hard for bellydancers to dance to? Are you interested in stepping up your playing level? Would you like to learn some real Middle Eastern rhythms, ones that actual, professional percussionists play?

Join me for a session of Middle Eastern drumming. I can teach you a few easy 4/4 rhythms, and if time provides, maybe even some more exciting asymmetrical ones like, a 7/8 and a 9/8. I will teach you how to count them out, and particularly how to read some standard notation so when you go away to practice, you can learn new things from a handout I'll give you!

I will bring a few drums to share, but please bring one if you have one. These rhythms are easy to learn even if you don't have a drum with you, though, so don't let a lack of a drum be a deterrent. (Just ask my previous employer; before gigs, I used to practice by drumming on my desk.)  Even if your drum is African, like a djembe or an ashiko, or Irish, like a bodhran, bring it! You can play Middle Eastern rhythms, too.