INTRODUCTION TO BASIC

MIDDLE EASTERN INSTRUMENTS

With SHIBAR MOZUNA
 RHYTHM AND DANCE
My Singer, from that earthen drum,
What sweet music you bring
From the earthen drum of my body.

The first sound we hear is our Mother’s heartbeat. While we nestle and grow in the
safety of the womb that beat is ever present. Rhythm inundates our entire world. The rhythm
of the tides, marking time as the sun and moon chase each other across the sky. The rhythmic
sounds of the natural world like the croaking of frogs or the rasping voice of crickets. Both
generated by the pulsing beat of genetic recreation. Which also lends a rhythm to our own
lives.
There is even the constant pounding cacophony of the modern world from cell phones
to jackhammers. Rhythm is the sound of life. The most ancient cultures used and “revered
rhythm as the structuring force of life.” William H. McNeil, historian, believes that “learning
to move and give voice [rhythmically], and the strengthening emotional bonds associated
with this sort of behavior, were critical prerequisites for the emergence of humanity.”
The oldest known depiction of dancing and drumming is on a wall painting in Catal
Huyuk, located in Central Anatolia, Turkey. The painting is of several figures in leopard
skins dancing around a giant bull and playing various instruments, one of which is a frame
drum. This painting is estimated to have been created around 5800 BC.
From almost the same period of time the frame drum has shared an association with
grain sieves. It’s known that women baked bread at Catal Huyuk, but it’s also thought that
they may have baked sacred bread as well. This would have been baked in honor of the grain
goddess. Since grain was sprouted in dark earthen pots it was associated with the womb of
the Goddess. Many drums in ancient times were adorned with symbols representing the
womb. Concentric circles are one of the most prevalent symbols and represent the ubiquitous
omphalos, Greek for navel. Many scholars believe that the frame drum and grain sieve share
a common ancestry they are so closely associated (the oldest word for frame drum in the
Sumarian language means sieve).
From the earliest civilizations frame drums have been associated with the secular and
the sacred, dancing and women, the bakers of the bread, the harvesters of the grain and the
guardians of the life-bestowing womb. (One would also like to say the priestess of a
matriarchal society, but I personally believe there is not enough evidence to support that
assumption.)
“The word history itself came from dance. Histor, from ancient Rome, meaning a
dancer, was also the root for many derivatives from history to minister (Minlistria) and later
minstrel.” According to John Mathews in his book on the Winter Solstice, in Neolithic times
in Britain the solstice was celebrated with dance. “This was above all a time of celebration,
of ritual acts designed to align the individual with the cosmos. Dances were devised to enact
the movement of the seasons, the fertility of the land and people. The masked dancers and
shaman of the bronze age and the Neolithic people are still reflected in the masked ‘guisers’
who tour the out lying villages of Britain and Ireland to this day…”
So, we have drumming and dancing associated with both hunting, seasonal changes
so important to early agriculture and it’s association with fertility and death. Death and
regeneration/birth, the two defining moments of our existence. It’s not surprising then that
music [rhythm] and dance still play an important role in many modern cultures and religions.
Shamans still dance to the drum, as do Belly Dancers. The sung prayers of the Muslims still
rhythmically defines their day and the ringing bells and dancing of the Buddhist Monks still
chase the ghosts away. And in the West people, especially women, are finding empowerment
and transformation through both the secular and sacred aspects of rhythm and dance.
ACCORDIAN- The quarter tone accordion has been a popular baladi instrument in Cairo,
Egypt for decades. The most common type of accordion is the piano accordion, which has a
row of piano like keys instead of buttons and is a double action accordion.

BAGLAMA – The baglmam is a popular long-necked, vault-backed 7 or 9 stringed lute with

¼ tone fretting which is constructed in four different sizes and has a very distinctive sound.
The baglama is often referred to as a saz, which is misleading. Turkish born musician Omar
Faruk Tekbelik is a master of the baglama and he defines saz as simply meaning instrument.
(Which explains why there is a sticker on my duduk that says SAZ!) The baglama has a pear
shaped bowl resonator, which is curved or caravel-built (constructed of several sections of
shaped wood). The neck has a variable number of movable frets, which allows the setting of
the scales to include microtones. There are three double courses of metal strings tuned to
wooden pegs. It is the most popular instrument in Turkey and was the favored instrument of
minstrel poets of the Turkish tribes of southwest Asia. It is still played in dervish ceremonies
of some Turkish sects.

BENDIR – A large frame drum associated with North Africa, especially Morocco, Algeria
and Berber music of the High Atlas. A popular instruments used in Algerian Rai, which
translates as “ state of opinion.”

BUZUQ - A long neck fretted lute with metal strings.

CLARINET – Johan Christoph Denner, a German flute maker invented the clarinet about
1700. In the eighteenth century the European clarinet replaced all the traditional wind
instruments in Thrace and became the main instrument of all forms of Tzigane (Gypsy/Rom)
music. This is a G clarinet as opposed to the B-flat clarinet used in Western music.
CUMBUS – The cumbus was invented in the early twentieth century by Zeynel Abidin
Cumbus. The body is metal and the neck is longer than the oud’ s. The cumbus became so
popular that in many places it replaced the oud.

DAIRE--Round single headed large frame drum. The term daire, meaning circle, is probably
of Persian origin. It consists of a narrow hoop of wood 5 to 8 cm deep, with a diameter of 20
to 50 cm over which is stretched and glued a thin membrane of kidskin. In specially made
slits on the wooden hoop are fitted pairs of small cymbals, which add a metallic ring. The
Daire is held between the thumb and forefinger of one hand while the remaining three fingers
rap on the hoop. The instrument is rapped directly on the fingers, palms and fist of the other
hand, or other parts of the body (elbo, knee or shoulder); it may also be rubbed to achieve a
particular effect.

Shibar
DAVUL (Turkey) - TABLA BELEDI (Egypt) - TUPAN (Bulgaria)- A large double sided
bass drum played with a drum stick (tomak) in one hand, on one side which has a thick skin,
and a beater switch (cubuk) used on the other side, which has a thin skin, and in the other
hand. The davul utilizes rope tension to attach the drumheads. Slung over one shoulder by a
strap it is frequently danced with. In Arabic Tabl translates as drum. In Kesan, a town in
Turkish Thrace traditional davul and zurna ensembles consists of two zurnas and one davul.

DOUMBEC - (Turkey), also known variously as TABLA (Egypt), DOKO (Egypt),

DUMBEKI, DARBOUKA (Turkey) and DURBEKI, is one of the principle percussion
instruments of the Middle East. This is a single head, open ended goblet or hourglass shaped
drum which may have either a natural skinhead (most often goat) or one of Mylar. It can be
made from pottery, wood or metal, each one with it’ s own distinct sound.

DUDUK (Armenia) - a cylindrical wooden oboe from Armenia, where it is also known as a
Mey (Turkey). It has seven finger holes and one thumbhole and is made in three sizes from
28cm. long to 40cm. with a reed ranging from 9-14cm. The duduk has a warm, softly
ethereal, slightly nasal timber and at least two are usually played together with the second
instrument holding a tonic drone called the “ dam”. Similar instruments are known in
Byelorussia, Russia and the Ukraine, where they are called “ duduka” , and the duct flutes
called “ duduk” , exist in Georgia, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia and Turkey.
GAJDA (Bulgaria) – Traditional Bulgarian bagpipes.

KABAK KAMANCHE / KAMANCHE– A 3 stringed Turkish adaptation of the European

Violin referred to as a “ spike fiddle” for obvious reasons, there is a spike on the end and it is
bowed. First adapted in the 18th century. This is the instrument which “ screams” in Turkish
Rromany music.

KANUN / QANUN - The Qanun, an ancient instrument, is a trapezoidal zither greatly

appreciated for it’ s polyphonic possibilities and it’ s lush sound. Although originally plucked
with the fingertips, in modern times are plucked with “ plectrums” or picks fixed on to the
index fingers. The pitch of the notes is modified according to the “ makam” or mode being
played, by adjusting small metal plates. The Qanun can be found in many countries such as
Greece, Egypt and Turkey. In the twentieth century the Turks improved on the age-old
design by adding tuning keys that adjust individual strings, this allows the playing of
quartertones.

KAVAL- Rim-blown flute similar to the Ney. It can be made of wood, cane, bone or metal
and has five or more finger holes, one thumbhole, and sometimes additional un-fingered
holes. It is primarily a pastoral instrument associated with shepherds and nomads; among the
southern Turkmen, it is used for instrumental laments.

KEMAN – The keman is the western violin adapted in Turkey in the eighteenth century. It
became so popular it spread through out Anitolia and the Middle East.
MIZMAR (Egypt) The mizmar is one of a large family of wooden double read “ oboes” .
Producing a loud and buzzing tone which is popular at outdoor Egyptian festivals. With
double reeds and seven finger holes, Mizmars come in many sizes and are closely related to
the Turkish zurna. A favorite and standard in many Middle Eastern countries.

MIZWIZ or MIJWIZ - popular in Egypt and Lebanon the Mijwiz are a double
bamboo/reed pipes.

NEY / NAI – Nai is a generic term referring to several folkloric flutes as well as a specific
flute. According the Mevlevi Sufi tradition the 7 holes of the ney correspond with the nine
orifices of the human body, symbolizing a human being as an empty reed and the breath of
the Divine blowing through it, creating music. The Turkish ney varies from the Arabic nai, in
that it has a wooden cap on the end to aid articulation. Turkish musical virtuoso Omar Faruk
Tekbelik is brilliant on the ney!

Omar Faruk Tekbelik

OUD - The Mother of the European Lute, Mandolin and Guitar the oud originated as a
Persian instrument with an innovative sounding board constructed of wood instead of skin, as
the previous sounding boards had been. The oud can have 11 or 5 double strings on a short
fret-less neck attached to a fat pear-shaped sound box. The oud is played with a plectrum,
which is usually an Eagle feather and the strings are goat-gut. The oud was introduced to
Europe when the Arabs entered Spain. Originally the only difference between the oud and
the lute was the fact that lutes were played with a pick instead of a plectrum. The Arabic oud
has a wider scale than the Turkish oud, however the Turkish ouds, though less ornamented,
are generally better made. This is one of the predominate instruments of the Middle East.

REBABAH- The rebabah is a two-stringed spike fiddle (bowed instrument) which may rest
on the side of a foot or the knee. It might have been the prototype of the modern European
violin. The rebabah is very popular with Egypt’ s Ghawazii performers and can be found in
many Arabic regions.

RIQUE- In America it’ s known as a tambourine, but in Egypt it’ s called a Rique or a Deff.
Rique translates loosely as “ something delicate” . The rique is a single headed frame drum
which s generally small. Small brass discs or cymbals, often in sets of two, which give it an
extra jingle when struck, divide the wooden or metal frame. The head is made of natural skin,
mylar or fish skin. The Rique is played in the same manner as the doumbec and plays the
same rhythms, with a difference; the musician may focus heavily on playing the attached zils
as well as the drum surface itself!
 Yuri Yunakov
SAXOPHONE – The saxophone is named after it’ s mid-nineteenth century Belgian inventor
Adolph Saxophone. A metal wind instrument with keys and a single reed, Saxophones come
in many different sizes and registers. A very popular jazz instrument. In the 1970’ s, in the
southern area of the Bulgarian section of Thrace, the southeastern corner of Europe now
shared by Turkey, Greece and Bulgaria a wild and exhilarating new music, called Wedding
Music became extremely popular, even in Bulgaria’ s communist era. Wedding music is a
fusion of jazz, rock, Arabic, Indian, Rom and regional Bulgarian music.
Yuri Yunakov, a leading proponent and one of the innovators of the style, plays the hottest
Saxophone I’ ve ever heard. He is of Turkish Rom ancestry and although he also plays
clarinet and davul he is a master of the saxophone! Egypt’ s Mustafa Sax is also a saxophone
master. First learning the Sax at age 12, he went on to also study the qanun and piano. After
moving to London he continued to develop his unique baladi style.

Omar Faruk Tekbelik

SIPSI –The sipsi is a Turkish folkloric single reed pipe with five finger holes and one
thumbhole allowing it to play a diatonic scale.
TURKISH SPOONS- Turkish Spoons are called KASIKLAR, which is plural. They are
more commonly referred to as Kasik, which is singular. The four spoons are considered one
instrument when played. “ Possibly the peasant substitute for wooden Krotala” . These are sets
of four, most often hand-carved, wooden spoons; sometimes painted, sometimes plain. Held
in the hand in sets of two, similar to Flamenco castanets (which are themselves stylized
spoons), the backs of the spoons are clicked together using the same patterns as drums and
zils. These are very ancient percussion instruments as well as cooking and eating utensils!
Kasiklar are taught in school in Turkey, not unlike our band classes.

TAR (Turkey), also called a DEFF (Egypt), is a single head frame drum which consists of a
narrow hoop of wood 5 to 8 cm deep, with a diameter of 20 to 50 cm over which is stretched
and glued a thin membrane of kidskin or Mylar. This drum is normally held in a moving left
hand, between the thumb and forefinger, allowing the fingers to curve in towards the drum.
The Deff is usually held in a moving left hand while being struck by the right hand.
 Faruk Tekbelik
VOICE – In Turkish music the tradition of vocal solo improvisation is very important. A
performance usually centers on one of the primary maqams (tonal scales). The singer then
expands upon their interpretation of the maqam.

ZILS (Turkey) also called SAGAT (Egypt), are a set of four small metal discs usually made
of brass with holes in the center through which elastic is inserted to form a loop. These are
worn one each, on the middle finger and thumb of each hand.
ZURNA – Folkloric Turkish double reed oboe with seven finger holes and one thumb hole.
The reeds are carefully constructed to give them the proper opening through which the player
blows. Many zurna players make their own reeds, whipping them on to a metal holder which
is itself whipped with thread until it fits snuggly in the zurna. A piercing, buzzing tone is
produced which can move the hardest heart.

Faruk Tekblik
 BARGAIN BASEMENT BALADI BEATS
MERHABA, and welcome to Madam Mozuna’ s Bargain Basement Baladi Beats. An
introduction to Middle Eastern rhythms for Doumbec, Tar and Zils.

The DOUMBEC (Turkey), also known variously as TABLA (Egypt), DOKO

(Egypt), DUMBEKI, DARBOUKA and DURBEKI, is one of the principle percussion
instruments of the Middle East. This is a single head, open ended goblet or hourglass shaped
drum which may have either a natural skinhead (most often goat) or one of mylar. It can be
made from pottery, wood or metal, each one with it’ s own distinct sound. It is usually played
under the left arm, resting on the player’ s leg with the head pointed slightly down. This style
of drum can produce several different tones, from a nice bass Doum, to a high pitched Toc
produced by applying pressure to the drum head with the left hand and hitting Tocs with the
right hand on the drum rim.

How to Play: Imagine you’ re holding a clock on your leg that faces the audience. The
Doumbec is played by striking the left hand at 12 o’ clock, producing the tone we will call
CA. The right hand strikes the center of the drum, producing the tone we will call Doum. The
right hand also strikes the rim of the drumhead at 9 o’ clock, producing the tone we will call
TEC.

Note: you do not use the whole left hand to strike the drum but only the “ring” or fourth
finger. This takes a lot of practice, but is the proper way to play and will later help to
increase your virtuosity.

The TAR (Turkey), also called a Deff (Egypt), is a single head frame drum which consists of
a narrow hoop of wood 5 to 8 cm deep, with a diameter of 20 to 50 cm over which is
stretched and glued a thin membrane of kidskin or mylar. This drum is normally held in a
moving left hand, between the thumb and forefinger, allowing the fingers to curve in towards
the drum.

How to Play:
The Tar is played in the same fashion as the Doumbec and can play the same rhythm
patterns. It can also be “ rubbed” to create a moaning effect. Imagine again that the drumhead
is a clock face turned toward the audience. This time the left hand is on the bottom, but the
tone it creates we will still call CA. The right hand is exactly the same as with the Doumbec,
hitting DOUM in the center and TEC on the side at 9 o’ clock.
ZILS (Turkey), also known as SAGAT (Egypt), or FINGER CYMBALS (USA) are a set of
four small metal discs usually made of brass with holes in the center through which elastic is
inserted to form a loop. These are worn one each, on the middle finger and thumb of each
hand. They also produce three sounds that we will call CLACK, CLICK and RING.
 Basic Middle Eastern Drum Rhythms

MASMOUDI KABIR (Big Rhythm) (8/4)

DOUM DOUM TEC TEC DOUM (teca teca tec, teca teca tec)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

teca doum teca doum teca tec teca tec teca doum teca teca tec teca teca tec
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

MASMOUDI SAGIR (Little Rhythm) (8/4)

DOUM DOUM DOUM TEC TEC DOUM (teca teca tec, teca teca tec tec)
1 2 3 4 & 5 6 7 8

MALFUF (2/4)
DOUM TEC TEC
1 2

DOUM TEC TEC

1 2

DOUM TEC TEC

1 2

DOUM DOUM TEC

1 2

- OR -
DOUM CA TEC CA TEC CA
1 2

DOUM CA TEC CA TEC CA

1 2

DOUM CA TEC CA TEC CA

1 2

DOUM DOUM TEC

1 2
 AYOOB (2/4 Arabic Zar)
DOUM CA DOUM CA
1 2

MAQSOOM(Arabic 4/4)
DOUM TEC TEC DOUM TEC
1 & 2 & 3 4

DOUM DOUM TEC DOUM TEC

1 & 2 & 3 4

doum doum teca tec doum teca tec(teca)

1 2 3 4

CHEFTITELLI (Turkish 8/4)

DOUM TEC TEC DOUM DOUM TEC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

DOUM TEC TEC DOUM TEC TEC DOUM DOUM TEC

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

DOUM CA-TEC TEC CA-TEC TEC TECA DOUM TECA DOUM TECA TEC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

KARSILAMA (Turkish 9/8)

DOUM (teca) TEC (teca) DOUM (teca) TEC TEC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

BOLERO( Rhumba ) (Turkish 4/4)

DOUM (ca) TECTEC DOUM TEC DOUM TEC
1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

DOUM (ca) TECATECA DOUM TEC DOUM TEC

1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

SAMI (Turkish 10/8)

DOUM TECA TECA TEC TECA TECA TEC TECA TEC TEC
1 2 3 4 5

DOUM DOUM TEC TEC TECA TECA TEC TEC

6 7 8 9 10
 ZILS

TRIPLETS or the GALLOP

1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3,
1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3,
1, 2, 3, FOLLOW ME!

MAQSUM-

Base rhythm
1, 2
1, 2, 3
-or-
R, L
R, L, R

Fuller rhythm
1, 2
1
1, 2, 3
1
1, 2, 3
-or-
R, L (or R, R)
R
R, L, R
R
R, L, R

With Flourish
1, 2
1
1, 2, 3
1
1, 2, 3
(1, 2)
-or-
R, L (or R, R)
R
R, L, R
R
R, L, R
(R, L)

MASMOUDI KABIR

1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
-or-
R, L, R
R, L, R
R, L, R, L, R, L, R
R, L, R
R, L, R, L, R
R, L, R, L, R

Drum pattern for Turkish Chiftitelli (Turkish 8/4)

DOUM TEC TEC DOUM DOUM TEC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

DOUM TEC TEC DOUM TEC TEC DOUM DOUM TEC

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

DOUM CA-TEC TEC CA-TEC TEC TECA DOUM TECA DOUM TECA TEC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Zil patterns for Turkish Chiftitelli

R RLR RLR R L R

R RLR RLR RLR,RLR,RLR

Drum pattern for Bolero ( Rhumba ) (Slow Turkish 4/4)

DOUM (ca) TECTEC DOUM TEC DOUM TEC
1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &
DOUM (ca) TECATECA DOUM TEC DOUM TEC
1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

Zil patterns for Turkish Bolero

R RLR R L R L

R RLR RLRLRLR
1 1&2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
 RECCOMENDED PERCUSSION DISCOGRAPHY

INSTRUCTIONAL

UNCLE MAFUFO’S BASIC RHYTHMS-Armando Mafufo

Armando Mafufo first issued an instructional recording for percussion in 1981and has
produced several more since then. Uncle Mafufo is friendly and engaging with clear and
simple instruction. Armando teaches in the accepted fashion of first counting out the beat,
then presenting it in “ Drum speak” , using doum, tec and ca to represent the right and left
hand patterns. Then he finally presents a play along example. www.unclemafufo.com

RHYTHMS OF THE NILE

Introduction to Egyptian Dance Rhythms-Hossam Ramzy
This two CD set is Hossam’ s first instructional production. On the first CD Hossam
introduces each instrument used then offers a rhythm and it’ s time signature followed by
samples of the rhythm. The focus on the first CD is the rhythms. On the second CD he goes
into much greater detail on understanding the instruments and how they are played. Here he
covers Masmoudi I & II, Maqsoum, Saaidi, Fallahi, Zaar, Malfuf, Karachi, Elzaffa, a 3/4
rhythm, Samaai, Abu el Khamsa and a final rhythmic combination which is over 10 minutes
long. www.hossamramzy.com

RYTHMS OF THE NILE

A workshop by Egypt’s master percusssionist-Hossam Ramzy
In a clear and concise recording Hossam Ramzy presents several familiar Egyptian
percussion instruments; the Tabla (doumbec or darabucka), the Mazhar, the Duf, the Reque,
the Doholla and the Sagat and Toura, as well as 5 basic rhythms; Masmoudi, Maqsoum,
Malfuf, Zaar, Fallahi, and Saaidi. Hossam is very personable, friendly and encouraging in his
explanations, but he’s always at his best when playing and play he does! Each rhythm is
explained and then an example is provided culminating in a wonderful jam session which
utilizes all the rhythms on the recording and most of the instruments mentioned. This is a
good source of information for students, both drummers and dancers and the finale jam
session is definitely "performance" worthy. www.hossamramzy.com

ARABIC RHYTHMS – VOLUME TALATA 3

Advanced Rhythms for the Advanced Dancer – Karim Nagi
Veshengo had the pleasure in 2004 of both meeting and taking an Egyptian Tabla class with
Karim Nagi at Folk Tour’ s music and dance camp in Pennsylvania. Karim is an excellent
percussionist, an excellent teacher, and his particular style of Arabic Folk Dance must be
experienced to be believed! He put together this CD in conjunction with Nourhan Sharif and
the Egyptian Academy of Oriental Dance to help dancers and musicians increase their
repertoire by introducing them to some of the often forgotten traditional Arabic rhythms.
From the title it might be assumed that this CD is just for dancers, but it is also an
ideal source of inspiration for any percussionist who is feeling a little bored by the same old
4/4 over and over again. (Dum-dum teka-tek dum teka-tek teka, until you start to froth at the
mouth and fall over backwards.) After a very informative introduction, Karim introduces us
to the rhythms York Sama' i (6/8), Dawr Hindi (7/8), Masmudi Kabir (8/4), Aqsaq Afrangi
(9/8), Sama'i Thaqil (10/8), 'Awis (11/4), Mudawar Masri (12/4), Muraba' a (13/4), and
Mahajjar (14/4). The CD then concludes with two drum solos. (Total playing time is
1:15:15.) The production work on this CD is first rate with Karim playing Arabic Tabla,
Riqq, Segat (large Zills), Dhola, and Bass Drum. Karim is also responsible for the musical
arrangements, concept, text, and narration. The CD is available from the Egyptian Academy
of Oriental Dance website at www.egyptianacademy.com/store.asp Samples can be heard at
Karim’s Turbo Tabla site at www.turbotabla.com/cds/

ARABIC MAQAMS MADE SIMPLE – Aboudi Badawi

Maqams are similar to western scales. There are a lot of maqams but this recording presents
some of the more popular. The maqam examples given are: Ajam, Hejaz, Nahawand, Bayat,
Rast, Kurd, Saba, and finally, Sika. Aboodi@msn.com

PERCUSSION FOR DANCING

THE DANCING DRUM – Issam

Issam is an expert percussionist and he has put together a recording with wonderful tabla
solos and drum rhythms. There’ s no instruction on the CD because he teaches workshops and
created this recording for his students as a play along, that supports what he teaches. The
rhythms Issam so expertly presents are: Saidii, Wahda Kabira, Maksoom, Malfoof,
Masmoudi Soghayar, Masmoudi, Balady, Fallahi, Ayoub, Karatchi, Morrocan, Rasba, Zaffa,
and Khaliji. He also has 3 drum solos and all of the pieces are a dream to dance to. A must
have! www.tablabyissam.com

MUSIC FOR TRIBAL BASICS – FatChanceBellyDance

The rhythms offered here as simple and fairly long and for some monotonous but they are
perfect for practicing any Belly Dance not just Tribal Style. The rhythms offered are
Maqsoum, Karachi, Frame drum, Moroccan Six, Baladi (they mean maqsoum), and Ayoob.
http:www.fcbd.com/

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE – Solace

Solace is Jeremiah M. Soto and he has created a good practice recording, especially if you
are into Tribal Style. The rhythms offered are Beledi (they mean Maqsoum), Chifte-telli,
Masmoudi, Beledi 2, Saidi, Karshlima, Zar Dance (Ayyub), Sword Dance, Moroccan, Shoush
and finally Laz.

DANCING DRUMS LIVE AT THE GIZA CLUB - SuSu & the Cairo Cats
In the past Veshengo and I have been quite active in the Society for Creative Anachronism,
and it was at a Pennsic War that I first heard these drum songs. There were an awful lot of
merchants that year and as we strolled from stall to stall we’d hear snatches of the hottest
drumming. It wasn’t long before I asked a merchant who it was, and it was even less time
before I strolled out of a stall with my own copy. I tried to find another copy at the end of the
week but every single one had been sold. This is a recording like no other.
Side One was recorded live at the Giza Club, San Francisco in 1991 and is composed of five
different Drum arrangements by SuSu Pampanin. These are incredible drum solos intended
to be songs in their own right and they are steaming hot! I played this tape to someone who
once thought drums shouldn’t be thought of as "real" musical instruments because he didn’t
think they could create a melody. He was suitably impressed after listening to side one, and
it’s not often one gets to impress one’s Father (oops, don’t tell him I told you). If you like
percussion you’ll love this! One of Madam Mozuna’s all time favorites.
Side Two begins with a full Oriental Cabaret routine, called Tabeli ya Susu, written by
Houda el Artiste. This set is wonderful, I just love Susu’s song, and I sing this talented young
lady’s praises too! The tape ends with a beautiful, peaceful piece called Aswan Drum Trance.
In my humble opinion this tape is a must have. Quality through and through!
SHAKE ME YA GAMAL –Gamal Goma
Hot Tabla Solos
These are great drum solos, which were composed so that each pieced focused on one
rhythm. Just try to stay still when you hear this recording! The rhythms presented are: Saidi,
Malfoof, Maqsum, Ayyoub, Khaliji, Fallahi and the final track is a combination of rhythms.
These really are Hot Tabla solos! www.hollywoodmusiccenter.com

MAGICAL FINGERS – various artist

This is another great collection of percussion pieces with several different artists showing off
their magical fingers. www.hollywoodmusiccenter.com

POI FOR GADJE – David Macejka

This is another exciting collection of percussion pieces for dancers. He covers more than 13
different rhythms and his sound is very unique. A lot of fun. www.RISHIRECORDS.com
 RECCOMENDED DISCOGRAPHY
INSTRUCTIONAL
UNCLE MAFUFO’S BASIC RHYTHMS-Armando Mafufo
Armando Mafufo first issued an instructional recording for percussion in 1981and has produced several more
since then. Uncle Mafufo is friendly and engaging with clear and simple instruction. Armando teaches in the
accepted fashion of first counting out the beat, then presenting it in “ Drum speak” , using doum, tec and ca to
represent the right and left hand patterns. Then he finally presents a play along example.
www.unclemafufo.com

RHYTHMS OF THE NILE

Introduction to Egyptian Dance Rhythms-Hossam Ramzy
This two CD set is Hossam’ s first instructional production. On the first CD Hossam introduces each instrument
used then offers a rhythm and it’ s time signature followed by samples of the rhythm. The focus on the first CD
is the rhythms. On the second CD he goes into much greater detail on understanding the instruments and how
they are played. Here he covers Masmoudi I & II, Maqsoum, Saaidi, Fallahi, Zaar, Malfuf, Karachi, Elzaffa, a
3/4 rhythm, Samaai, Abu el Khamsa and a final rhythmic combination which is over 10 minutes long.
www.hossamramzy.com

RYTHMS OF THE NILE

A workshop by Egypt’s master percusssionist-Hossam Ramzy
In a clear and concise recording Hossam Ramzy presents several familiar Egyptian percussion instruments; the
Tabla (doumbec or darabucka), the Mazhar, the Duf, the Reque, the Doholla and the Sagat and Toura, as well as
5 basic rhythms; Masmoudi, Maqsoum, Malfuf, Zaar, Fallahi, and Saaidi. Hossam is very personable, friendly
and encouraging in his explanations, but he’s always at his best when playing and play he does! Each rhythm is
explained and then an example is provided culminating in a wonderful jam session which utilizes all the
rhythms on the recording and most of the instruments mentioned. This is a good source of information for
students, both drummers and dancers and the finale jam session is definitely "performance" worthy.
www.hossamramzy.com

ARABIC RHYTHMS – VOLUME TALATA 3

Advanced Rhythms for the Advanced Dancer – Karim Nagi
Veshengo had the pleasure in 2004 of both meeting and taking an Egyptian Tabla class with Karim Nagi at Folk
Tour’ s music and dance camp in Pennsylvania. Karim is an excellent percussionist, an excellent teacher, and his
particular style of Arabic Folk Dance must be experienced to be believed! He put together this CD in
conjunction with Nourhan Sharif and the Egyptian Academy of Oriental Dance to help dancers and musicians
increase their repertoire by introducing them to some of the often forgotten traditional Arabic rhythms.

From the title it might be assumed that this CD is just for dancers, but it is also an ideal source of inspiration for
any percussionist who is feeling a little bored by the same old 4/4 over and over again. (Dum-dum teka-tek dum
teka-tek teka, until you start to froth at the mouth and fall over backwards.) After a very informative
introduction, Karim introduces us to the rhythms York Sama' i (6/8), Dawr Hindi (7/8), Masmudi Kabir (8/4),
Aqsaq Afrangi (9/8), Sama' i Thaqil (10/8), ' Awis (11/4), Mudawar Masri (12/4), Muraba' a (13/4), and Mahajjar
(14/4). The CD then concludes with two drum solos. (Total playing time is 1:15:15.)
The production work on this CD is first rate with Karim playing Arabic Tabla, Riqq, Segat (large Zills), Dhola,
and Bass Drum. Karim is also responsible for the musical arrangements, concept, text, and narration. The CD is
available from the Egyptian Academy of Oriental Dance website at www.egyptianacademy.com/store.asp
Samples can be heard at Karim' s Turbo Tabla site at www.turbotabla.com/cds/
ARABIC MAQAMS MADE SIMPLE – Aboudi Badawi
Maqams are similar to western scales. There are a lot of maqams but this recording presents some of the more
popular. The maqam examples given are: Ajam, Hejaz, Nahawand, Bayat, Rast, Kurd, Saba, and finally, Sika.
Aboodi@msn.com

MEDITATIVE OR WARM UP MUSIC

ANCIENT EGYPT – Dr. Ali Jihad Racy
This is a very well known recording by the respected Ethnomusicologist Dr. Ali Jihad Racy.
The Egyptian Book of the Dead and the ancient treasures of Tutankhamen inspired it, and it
was first performed for the King Tutankhamen Exhibit at the Seattle Art Museum in 1978.
There are liner notes with the recording, which help explain the instruments used and the
intent of the artist. Dr. Racy, who is a virtuoso on the Nay and Buzuq, as well as playing the
Violin, Rababah, Daff and Arghul, makes good use of modern over-dubbing to create an
inspired and haunting recording. The titles are as evocative as the pieces themselves, The
Lamentations of Isis, The Land of the Blessed, Hymn to Osiris, The Boat of a Million Years,
The Holy Lotus, Funeral Procession, Hymn for the Sunrise and The Triumph of the
Deceased. All of them are beautiful and entrancing.

MASTER OF ARABIAN FLUTE –Mohamed Naiem

Presented by Hossam Ramzy
This is a wonderful lilting introduction to one of the oldest instruments in the world. Beloved
in Egypt the Nai or Arabian flute is so dynamic that you’d never think of it as a simple
pastoral instrument. Simply beautiful. www.arcmusic.com/uk

I WILL NOT BE SAD IN THIS WORLD - Djivan Gasparyan

Duduk Music from Armenia
The Duduk is a style of Nay and Djivan Gasparyan is a master of the Duduk! This recording is absolutely
beautiful. It is so lilting, ethereal and poignant that you are quickly transported to a world both exotic and
soothing. Everyone I have ever played this for has fallen in love with it! Djivan is accompanied by Vachagan
Avakian on the Dam, which is a drone Duduk. There are 8 tracks for a total of almost 40 minutes. Each as
beautiful as the other. This album was dedicated to Life Aid Armenia and it’s work for the survivors of the 1988
earthquake in Armenia

TURQUIE: Musique Soufi

This is a beautiful recording of Sufi sacred songs and prayers, it’s almost naively honest music! I find this
recording soothes my frayed nerves and weary soul. It’s lovingly sung and mesmerizing in it’s rhythms. The
liner notes are extremely thorough in explaining the music, but unfortunately there is no information on the
musicians and singer. But actually I think that’s rather appropriate for such uplifting spiritual music. There are 8
tracks in all for a total of 71:46. This is an import obviously, but since I found it in a local chain store, it may
not be difficult to locate.

TURKISH SUFI MUSIC - Ali Eckber Cicek

Folk Lute of Anatolia
This recording offers six fine examples of Turkish Sufi music and vocals. These selections feature music that is
very contemplative, poignant, and emotional. Mr. Cicek’s voice has a very soothing tone which inspired in me a
feeling of familiarity and intimacy, as if I were listening to a favorite Uncle singing songs I had enjoyed all my
life. Mr. Cicek accompanies himself on the Saz, or Baglama, which many consider to be the national instrument
of Turkey as well as a powerful symbol of religious inspiration.
A well known recording artist whose first radio performance was at the age of thirteen, Mr. Cicek has evolved
his own personal style, with virtuosity, tempered by traditional Alevi Sufi influences. Well-written liner notes
provide greater insight into the music, instruments, historical context and personal background on Mr. Cicek.
These selections vary from up-beat, to slow, intense and pulsing; to rich and lush and driven, played with skill
and an a abandon which can crescendo to a thundering gallop. With the finale piece being played with a soft,
delicate touch, which is light and high but still very rhythmic. www.lyrichord.com

PERCUSSION FOR DANCING

THE DANCING DRUM – Issam
Issam is an expert percussionist and he has put together a recording with wonderful tabla solos and drum
rhythms. There’ s no instruction on the CD because he teaches workshops and created this recording for his
students as a play along, that supports what he teaches. The rhythms Issam so expertly presents are: Saidii,
Wahda Kabira, Maksoom, Malfoof, Masmoudi Soghayar, Masmoudi, Balady, Fallahi, Ayoub, Karatchi,
Morrocan, Rasba, Zaffa, and Khaliji. He also has 3 drum solos and all of the pieces are a dream to dance to. A
must have! www.tablabyissam.com

MUSIC FOR TRIBAL BASICS – FatChanceBellyDance

The rhythms offered here as simple and fairly long and for some monotonous but they are perfect for practicing
any Belly Dance not just Tribal Style. The rhythms offered are Maqsoum, Karachi, Frame drum, Moroccan Six,
Baladi (they mean maqsoum), and Ayoob. http:www.fcbd.com/

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE – Solace

Solace is Jeremiah M. Soto and he has created a good practice recording, especially if you
are into Tribal Style. The rhythms offered are Beledi (they mean Maqsoum), Chifte-telli,
Masmoudi, Beledi 2, Saidi, Karshlima, Zar Dance (Ayyub), Sword Dance, Moroccan, Shoush
and finally Laz.

DANCING DRUMS LIVE AT THE GIZA CLUB - SuSu & the Cairo Cats
In the past Veshengo and I have been quite active in the Society for Creative Anachronism, and it was at a
Pennsic War that I first heard these drum songs. There were an awful lot of merchants that year and as we
strolled from stall to stall we’d hear snatches of the hottest drumming. It wasn’t long before I asked a merchant
who it was, and it was even less time before I strolled out of a stall with my own copy. I tried to find another
copy at the end of the week but every single one had been sold. This is a recording like no other.
Side One was recorded live at the Giza Club, San Francisco in 1991 and is composed of five different Drum
arrangements by SuSu Pampanin. These are incredible drum solos intended to be songs in their own right and
they are steaming hot! I played this tape to someone who once thought drums shouldn’t be thought of as "real"
musical instruments because he didn’t think they could create a melody. He was suitably impressed after
listening to side one, and it’s not often one gets to impress one’s Father (oops, don’t tell him I told you). If you
like percussion you’ll love this! One of Madam Mozuna’s all time favorites.
Side Two begins with a full Oriental Cabaret routine, called Tabeli ya Susu, written by Houda el Artiste. This
set is wonderful, I just love Susu’s song, and I sing this talented young lady’s praises too! The tape ends with a
beautiful, peaceful piece called Aswan Drum Trance. In my humble opinion this tape is a must have. Quality
through and through!

SHAKE ME YA GAMAL –Gamal Goma

Hot Tabla Solos
These are great drum solos, which were composed so that each pieced focused on one rhythm. Just try to stay
still when you hear this recording! The rhythms presented are: Saidi, Malfoof, Maqsum, Ayyoub, Khaliji,
Fallahi and the final track is a combination of rhythms. These really are Hot Tabla solos!
www.hollywoodmusiccenter.com

MAGICAL FINGERS – various artist

This is another great collection of percussion pieces with several different artists showing off their magical
fingers. www.hollywoodmusiccenter.com
POI FOR GADJE – David Macejka
This is another exciting collection of percussion pieces for dancers. He covers more than 13 different rhythms
and his sound is very unique. A lot of fun. www.RISHIRECORDS.com

REMIX BELLY DANCE (House,Club, Techno/fusion)

NATACHA ATLAS-the remix collection
If you like DJ spun Techno club as well as Middle Eastern music then this is the recording for you. Great for
parties, Natacha rules! Natacha was born in Belgium and is of Egyptian, Palestinian and Moroccan decent. She
has lived in Brussels, Egypt, Greece and England.
Early in her career she began an association with Transglobal Underground, a multi-cultural group based in
London who created a fusion combining electronica, dub, hip-hop and funk with Indian, African and Middle
Eastern music. Transglobal Underground are thought by many to have been significant role models for the
current ‘world dance’ phenomenon.

GEDIDA – Natacha Atlas

Natacha is the Queen of tripped-out Belly Dance. She Belly Dances in performance so she
knows what dancers like. Her voice is like velvet and her attitude is sexy, sultry, self-assured
and seductive. She’s simply hot, hot, hot!

IMMORTAL EGYPT – Hossam Ramzy and Phil Thorton

This was a groundbreaking recording, one of the first to fuse Middle Eastern music with
Techno club music. I don’t know how many copies of this recording I’ve given away, all my
friends love it. It’s almost impossible to pick my favorite piece but two of my favorites are
Moroccan Dace and the final and title cut Immortal Egypt. Moroccan Dance usually sends
me whirling around in ecstatic turning but Immortal Egypt is far too impressive, amazing
and powerful to simply spin to it. This piece instantly brings to mind the vast majesty of the
deserts of Egypt and then transports you into an ancient Temple where you take part in an
ancient ritual of dance. This piece has sent me seeking a pair of sistrum so that I might
express how moved I am by this “Egypta”.

THE R.E.G. PROJECT

There are 10 cuts on this jammin’ recording. The first piece will have you on you feet and the
melodies sound so familiar, and yet! Driving beats and high energy make this one
irresistible! www.project-reg.com

TWO THOUSAND & ONE NIGHTS – Said Mrad

The Orient Beats Back - Various Artists
Music Moods, 2001
"Disco lives!" At least that’s what one person proclaimed on first hearing this album. And while it is,
unmistakably, "dance club music," I find these remixed, techno-enhanced versions of "Egyptian Classics"
absolutely irresistible. They’ve taken several very recognizable pieces, added some techno drum beats and bass
lines, and made a CD that is not only popular with many of the local belly dancers, but also appreciated by
anyone who is a fan of modern dance music. This is one of my very favorites with classic recording after classic
recording revamp with driving rhythm and DJ driven House and Club cuts. Belly dance for the new century!
Tracks include:
1. Where Do We Begin [5:25]
2. One Thousand & One Nights (Ali Leyla Wlayla) - radio version [4:29]
3. The Beginning [7:27]
4. Disturb (Bidayat Isaage) [8:28]
5. Love Night (Laylet Houb) [5:27]
6. Move Your Belly [5:01}
 7. One Thousand & One Nights (Ali Leyla Wlayla) - master mix [7:32]
8. Sandstorm (Sinbad) [6:31]

TURQUOISE Dalinda
(Presented by Hossam Ramzy)
Arc Music 2002 –www.arcmusic.co/uk
Over the past few years Hossam Ramzy has been producing a number of CDs introducing us to various talented
musicians and vocalists. With this release we are introduced to the wonderful vocal talents of Dalinda. Born in
Libya of Bosnian descent, Dalinda was exposed to a number of musical influences at an early age. Her mother
was a fan of Russian Gypsy ballads, her father of Slavik/Balkan folk music, and her young friends of Italian
canzonnas. This background may have made it difficult for her to identify with any one particular sound, but it
also gave her a diverse pool of musical cultures from which to draw. Eventually realizing that music had to be
the central focus of her life, Dalinda moved to London, having been captivated with the freedom of musical
expression possible there. Here she met Hossam Ramzy who helped shape her unique sound and musical
texture.
As with every CD produced by Mr. Ramzy, the musicians on Turquoise are top notch and the recording quality
is impeccable. Mr. Ramzy also had a hand in composing each of the tracks on this CD. Tracks include:
9. Mahboubi Khanni (My Beloved Deceived Me) [5:05]
10. Yeslam Galbak (God Bless Your Heart) [3:24]
11. Raqsah (A Dance) [4:35]
12. Yaah (Oh How Much) [4:28]
13. El Shams (With Every Sunrise) [4:31]
14. Esh Hal Qadny? (How Will I Be Patient Enough?) [4:21]
15. Efrah Wi Ghanny (Be Happy and Sing) [4:57]
16. Ghajareyyah (Gypsy Woman) [3:50]
17. Min Youm (Since the Day You Left) [4:36]
18. Enta (You) [3:39]
19. Blue [3:11]

POP AND MEZDEKE

DESERT WIND - OFRA HAZA
Offra was one of the first successful cross-over artist, mixing modern beats with traditional rhythms, modern
bass with tradition Middle Eastern Orchestration, traditional musical instruments fused with modern music and
remix methods. She also has the voice of a dark angel and a strong sense of heritage. Ofra was born in Yemen
in 1957 and her family traveled by foot to Israel, loosing most of their belonging in route. While growing up
Ofra’ s fame as a singer grew until she received the equivalent of the Grammy in 1986 after many silver and
gold recordings. In 1986 she was musically compelled to return to her Yemeni roots and this is her first offering
mixing the traditional with more modern (western) music. One of the first fusion recordings. Although dear,
beautiful Ofra has died her heart still sings to me and he rhythms still move my feet to dance. May her words of
love and family lead us all to a better life! Ofra’ s amazing life was cut tragically short and was a sad loss to the
dance community.

TARKAN – www.tarkan.com
Tarkan is a very talented, gorgeous singer from Turkey with a voice that could break a heart,
but I like him best when he’ s being saucy. His super big hit is a song most dancers in
America refer to as “Kiss, Kiss!” However there are several other tracks on this recording
that are hard to resist. Kiss Kiss is fairly pop but with an edge, other edgy songs are Olorum
Sana another angst filled song of love domination. Bu Gece has a real ‘House’ sound to it
and is a great remix. Sikidim is more Popish and reminds me of Kiss, Kiss in some way but I
still like it. Unut Beni is more like a standard American love song; I can here Dan Fogelberg
singing it or one of the new boy bands. Then it’ s followed by Inci Tanem, which sounds very
sad and poignant. Boy is Tarkan HOT! There are other pieces on this recording but you
don’ t need some one else describing them BUY THIS RECORDING it’ s one of the best!
Let me describe Kiss Kiss for you, beginning with a nice sweet swacking kiss, then a driving beat and Tarkan’ s
slippery vocals quickly tell you why Kiss Kiss has become a huge success. What most dancers don’ t know is
the translation, Tarkan sings in his native Turkish. Here is a translation you may be surprised what it really
means.
SIMARIK (SPOILED)- KISS, KISS
She takes another man by the arm
She makes me look like a fool once more
She blows bubbles with her chewing gum
And makes them snap brutally
(only on long version)
Maybe that’ s why I’ m so fascinated by her
She’ s playing hard to get
She’ s making fun of men, she’ s spoiled
Has the world turned upside down?

She painted her eyes black

Her lips painted red
Crazier that you’ ll ever meet
She’ s grinning at my face

We weren’ t raised that way

She’ s making us look like a fool
New customs have come to town
Boys, we’ re lost

You’ ve got a real hold on us

You can make a snake come out of it’ s hole
I lost my head over you
If I get a old of you, O

I’ ve fallen in your womb, baby

I’ ve fallen in your furnace, Baby
I’ ve fallen for you warmth, baby
Have mercy

CASBAH DANCE MIX

A compilation of different slightly edgy pop with a couple of remix pieces mixed in. Well
done and fun.

CLASSICAL RAQS SHARQI

About Farid Al Atrash
Farid Al Atrash, the man known to Arab musicians as the greatest oud player of his time - the King of the Oud.
Born in Lebanon in 1915, Farid was the son of Princess Alia and Prince Fahd Al Atrash. Due to political
reasons, Farid's mother was forced to flee to Egypt with her three children in 1923. As a young teenager, Farid
began to use his talent as an oud player, which he had learned from his mother, as a way of helping out his
family. He managed to get a contract with the band of Badi Masabni, infamous female owner of one of the most
famous nightclubs on Imad al-Din Street in the Ezbekiyya area of Cairo, and in 1934, the Egyptian
Broadcasting Authority began to air some of his oud solos each week. Farid went on to compose more than 500
songs and produce over 31 films before his death in 1974. Farid not only played the oud and composed he sang
as well and many Egyptian ladies hearts beat at the sound of his voice. He was the equivalent to Frank Sinatra
in popularity. He often found inspirations for his compositions in the Sa’ aidi music of Egypt and used many
traditional songs as inspiration for a new composition. This is one reason he was loved by all Egyptians!
www.farid-el-atrache.com

ETERNAL LOVE SONGS vol. #1 – Farid al Atrash

This is my favorite Farid Al Atrash recording because it has him singing my favorite song
Gamil Gamal the melody of which he took from an old Saa’ adi song. There are several other
great songs on this CD. It’ s a wonderful introduction to the popular dance music of the
1940’ s.

HALLAT Layali – Farid Al Atrash

This is a very old recording, which is one of the reasons I enjoy it so much. There are some
instrumental pieces, an amazing live oud performance, and lively songs replete with
zaghareets!

THE BEST OF FARID -AL ATRASH

This album is a tribute to Farid Al Atrash by Hossam Ramzy

1. Yahliw (You Little Beauty) [8:20] - Beginning with a wonderful accordion taxim which transitions
into a medium tempo 4/4 melody interspersed with instrumental solos on nay, quanoon, oud, and
violin, this piece is dedicated to Lucy Yahliwa, esteemed dancer and star of the stage and screen. This
is a fine example of Farid’s great dance melodies.
2. Ma Alli Wi-Oltilo (She Told Me and I Told Her) [10:12] - More lively and up-tempo than the first
track, this is an often heard and easily recognized piece featuring solos on quanoon, accordion, nay,
violin, and before wrapping up, transitions into a ciftiteli rhythm for some intricate oud work. This
famous song is about how Farid and his beloved have crossed all barriers by expressing their undying
love to each other, and the jealousy of those who don’t want them together.
3. Farid Al Atrash [8:36] - Featuring Mamdouh El Gebaly, one of today’s great oud players, this piece
begins with a 3:25 oud taxim, then transitions into a medium tempo masmoudi rhythm with
accompaniment on bass, tabla and reque. But the oud definitely carries this piece, as you would expect
with a piece dedicated to the man considered to be The King of the Oud. This piece expresses the love
Farid had for his instrument.
4. Gamil Gamal (Such Beauty) [7:25] - Another piece which dancers will quickly recognize, this is an
instrumental version of the song from the 1952 movie "Lahn El Kholood" in which Farid shared the
leading role with Lady Fatin Hamama (then the wife of Omar El-Sharif), and Katherine Hepburn. This
is a very good rendition of this piece, however I must admit that I do miss the vocals of the
original quite a bit.
5. Ya Wahishny Rod Allaya (I’m Missing You, Please Answer My Calls) [12:02] - This straight-ahead,
medium tempo 4/4 piece, composed by Farid but made famous by vocalist Moharram Fouad, a protege
of Mohammed Abdul Wahab, features more solo work by the accomplished musicians gathered
together on this album tied together by the driving rhythms of Mr. Ramzy. "My heart’s greeting
(Salamat), oh how I’m missing you."
6. El Hayah Helwa (Life Is So Beautiful) [6:50] - This lively, festive piece is punctuated throughout with
the zaghareeting of women, a sound often heard at weddings and celebrations. It alternates between
full volumed, quick tempoed orchestrated sections, and quieter, more lilting solo sections. This song
says, "Life is a song, how lovely are its lyrics they melt my heart."

MODERN RAQS SHARQI

TAQASIM
The Art of Improvisation in Arabic Music
Ali Jihad Racy and Simon Shaheen
This is a rare opportunity to hear extended Arabic Taqasims, played together by two virtuoso performers. Ali
Jihad Racy plays Buzuq and Simon Shaheen plays Ud. Beautifully played, soothing yet evocative. This
recording is simply lovely!
Side 1
Maqam Kurd [20:30]
Side 2
Maqam Nahawand [13:10]
Maqam Bayyati [8:53]
WWW.LYRCRD.COM

VEIL
Adel Asfour and Mohammed Amin
Aladden Records,1989
This was one of the first dance tapes I bought, over ten years ago, and it’s still one of my favorites. To me, this
is a classic example of entrancing Arabic Taqseems.
Side 1
Adel Asfour plays track after track of wonderful Arabic Keyboard Taqseems accompanied by a driving
Chifitelli.
Side 2
Side 2 also gives us track after track of wonderful Arabic Taqseems. This time Mohammed Amin captivates us
with the Nai, lilting over more driving Chifitellies.

SAAIDI MUSIC

AFRAH BALADNA SAID

"Afrah Baladna Said, The Joy of Our City Said," presents the improvised exclamation of joy, expressed by the
common people of Said, usually at festivals or gatherings in open fields and streets." The 14 tracks on this CD
represent some of the best Saa’idi music since Aischa Ali’s Anthropological Recordings. Performed and
recorded in Cairo, instrumentation includes tabla, dhola, mizmar, and rababa. This is a "must have" for any
musical library.

ASWAN MUSIC AND DANCE ENSEMBLE

This is another great example of Saa’aidi music. There are12 tracks all together which feature all the traditional
instruments associated with the dances of the Ghawazii, Mizmar, Nay, Rababa, mjwiz, Kawala, Dhola, Tabla,
and Daf. www.hollywoodmusiccenter.com

RAHHAL - GYPSIES OF THE NILE – Presented by Hossam Ramzy

Rahhal translates as ‘traveler’ and this recording is by a group of traveling musicians who are said to be
currently living 65 miles into the Egyptian desert west of the small village of Janaklees. These musicians travel
up and down the Nile and through out the country playing for weddings, festivals and religious celebrations.
There are more vocals on this recording than any other featuring Hala Mahmoud (she’ s only 14) Awad Saber
andMostafa Abdalla. www.arcmusic.co.uk

BALADI PLUS – Hossam Ramzy

Opening with a soul stirring Rebaba taxim, Baladi Plus just gets better and better.
20. "Night Foal", the opening piece, is a mesmerizing taxim on Rebaba and Mizmar 2:27
21. Arabian Knights is a "rock on" Saa’aidi composition inspired by the famous dancing Arabian Stallions.
This is the music I associate with the Ghawazii dancers and I can’t resist dancing to it every time I hear
it. I especially enjoy dancing with my cane on this one. 8:28
22. Mashalla is a percussive piece focusing on the Masmoudi and Maqsum rhythms. It’s very hard to sit
still when Hossam Ramzy plays! A good drum solo piece. 8:04
23. Alla Hai is a lovely heavy, pulsing Zaar. 6:55
24. Baladi we Hetta is a very Mohammed Ali Street selection with it’s hot accordion taxims and the
driving rhythm. I can easily imagine Lucy dancing to this. 9:16
25. Wahda We Bas is a combination of the rhythms Wahda Kebira and Samaai which is referred to in the
liner notes as "food for the soul" and I find that very appropriate. The piece has the flow of a Chifti and
features beautiful oud taxims and crisps clear drumming. 7:08
26. Malfuf Ala Westi is a great dance piece featuring the accordion again accompanying the Malfuf
rhythm which the liner notes say is the standard rhythm for stage entrances or exits. 7:10
Roah Albi is a great driving drum solo with a lot of exciting changes and is very reminiscent of the finale piece
of Ramzey’s Rhythms of the Nile recording. This is good drumming!
CLASSICAL TURKISH
(Think Ottoman Empire and Suffism)

SULEMAN THE MAGNIFICIENT -

TURKISH RrOMANI
THE ROAD TO KESAN
Turkish Rom and Regional Music of Thrace
This is a fabulous recording, which I enjoy listening to as much as dancing to! This is genuine Turkish
Rromanni music, well recorded and vibrantly played. If you’re interested in Turkish Romanni style music and
dance this is the recording for you. Extensive liner notes explain the development of the regional music of
Turkish Thrace. www.traditionalcrossroads.com

ARMENIAN MUSIC

GYPSY FIRE -Richard Hagopian

Featuring Omar Faruk Tekbilek
This recording is loaded with talent! Artist from the Middle East, Eastern Europe and America join together to
create a recording reminiscent of the New York club scene of the Fifties. A wonderful mixing of Gypsy, Arabic,
Armenian, Turkish, Greek and Jewish music. This is great dance music.
27. Rompi, Rompi [4:06] Richard sings this lively Karsilama and is backed up by some wonderful Kanun
and some Killer Saxophone. This is a classic party piece!
28. Nihavent [4:46] This is an instrumental piece in which Tekbilek shows off his melodic and lilting Ney.
Again the Kanun is beautifully played by Hasan Iskut. Grab your veil for this one.
29. Istemem Babacim [4:06] This is a lively song with great Sax and Oud
30. Kadife[5:05] This is a great syncopated song. Fun to dance to.
31. Muhabbet [8:12] This is a nice long set with lovely Taxims that flow between the Oud, Kanun and
Violin.
32. Minoush [3:34] This is another fun little song you’ll enjoy dancing to.
33. Fincan [4:32] This song is a little slower but it’s still a skirt swinger and the Sax is very soulful!
34. Konyali [2:31] This is an old favorite I’m sure you’ll recognize, you might even be able to sing along.
35. Beledy [3:03] This piece has Tekbilek playing a Zurna which will transport you right to the banks of
the Nile. Put on your Sagat and dance like the Gawazii!
36. Siseler [4:59] This is another old favorite with more killer Sax by Yuri Yunakov and fabulous violin
by Harold Hagopian. This song is so bright and happy it’s a great piece to end a memorable party!
www.traditionalcrossroads.com

TUNSIAN MUSIC

TUNISIAN RHYTHMS – recorded live in the 1970’s by Aisha Ali

The first sixteen tracks are basic rhythms and the last eight are Tunisian Dances. The recordings are good
considering they are field recordings. The rhythms are introduced, although not in English, and then broken
Nawara, Al Gheeta, Al Halla, Al A’ llegi, M’ dawar Hawzi, Mezan Al Jerbi, Jerbi/Kerkenah, Mezan Bouhella,
Mezan Al Fazzani, Souga, Mezan Al Mraba’ a, Mezan Al Istiftah, Mezan Al’ M’ hawshi, and finally Ezzgara.
The dance pieces presented are: Dance:Sfax, Dance:Sliman, Hamoda Al Souassi – chants, Nefta – Musket
dance, Tozeur – Seif dance, Tozeur – Musket dance, and Hassine Al Hannachi Group. www.aisha-ali.com

MORROCCAN MUSIC
MAROC – Moyen –Atlas
Musique sacree et profane
This recording offers 4 very long drum pieces from Morocco. It’ s wonderful to practice with
as well as listen too.

MOROCCAN STREET MUSIC

With a title like "Moroccan Street Music" you might expect poor recording quality, but the sound reproduction
here is surprisingly crisp and clear. In the traditional market places of Morocco one can always find an open
square with musicians playing and some of the most popular street artists and songs are featured here,
accompanied by well written liner notes.
37. L-Mirikan, was written in the 1940’s and is historically political. It’s performed with good rhythmic
Oud and plaintive vocals. 5:13
38. L-Awasaf is a generic term for folksongs from the region around Marrakech. Featuring Oud and vocals
this piece is rather long by American standards, but Moroccan folksongs are often very long, which
make them wonderful for trance work. 9:00
39. ’Awisha is another folksong, which in comparison with the two previous selections is very light and
lively. This piece features, the Darabuka, the et-ta’rija (a small hour-glass shaped drum with snares
which is played held in the hand as opposed to under the arm), the Bendir and vocals. This piece is
very danceable with a fun racing finale. 8:27
40. Nehjuba features Darabuka, Oud, Tar and vocals and is another lively folk dance with several changes
in tempo. This is an extremely long selection that lasts 15:30.
41. Muqaddima, a Blessing or Introduction. It’s customary for street musicians receiving donations to
express their appreciation before they offer a prayer to a particular Saint asking for a blessing for
themselves and their benefactor. 00:24
42. Sala am ’aliha is a traditional wedding song from the Tafilalet region with the Bendir as the prominent
instrument. A wonderful example of communal music which in a village setting might be supported by
as many a thirty singers. 5:53 www.lyrcd.com

YEMINITE MUSIC
FIFTY YEARS OF WISDOM
Yemenite Songs –Ofra Haza
Ofrah Haza is was very proud to be a Yemenite (just look at that incredible cover) and after
great success she was musically compelled in 1986 to return to her Yemeni roots and
ancestral home, this is her first offering mixing the traditional with more modern (western)
music. One of the first fusion recordings. Theses are social songs, wedding and festival
songs. If you listen closely you can hear the traditional cookie sheets used as percussion
pieces. Ofra was one of a kind!

ALGERIAN

ALGERIAN RAI (pronounced rye)

Algeria is a country in North Africa, which has been battling against uprising
fundamentalism for many years. Out of this strife and frustration has arisen a fusion protest
music so controversial that one of it’ s originators Khalid. Kalid’ s music so inflamed the
youth that he was banned from his own country and moved to Europe to continue his work in
relative freedom, fighting for freedom through music.

N’SSI N’SSI – Khaled

This is my favorite Khaled recording; there’ s a difference here from most Rai recordings.
Khaled take thing to the edge making the most of modern recording ability. This recording is
almost hypnotic at times, funky almost jazzy at other times. Khaled was one of the first and
still one of the most unique of the Rai performers.

ABSOLUTE RAI - Special 2 CD set

This special compilation covers some of the most pivotal proponents of Rai, Cheb Mami.
Cheb Khaled, Cheb Hasni, the Orchestre National de Barbes and score of others. There is an
average of 15 track per CD. Some CDs are more laid back then others, while some urge you
to find a freedom march to join! Rai also makes great ambient music, but the politics are still
there. I like CD #2 more then #1, it has a good bit more boogie to it and no. 3 “Lemouima” I
really love! CD #3 also has several good jam-up pieces. On CD #$ I love #3, Cheb Mami’ s
voice gives me shivers. #6 with Malik really groove as #8 with Cheikha Rabia as well as
many others. One of the best compilations of Rai out there.

AMERICAM CABARET
STRICTLY YA HABIBI
Eddie (the Sheik) Kochak and Hakki Obadia
Eddie Kochak, 1983
Originally recorded in the seventies, these recordings are truly timeless. Renowned percussionist Eddie Kochak
first met incredible violinist Hakki Obadia in 1954 while working on sessions for the Port Said album with
Mohammed El Bakkar. Hakki, originally from Baghdad, began playing the violin at age six and wrote his first
composition at age 11. Proficient on the piano, guitar, mandolin and oud, Hakki was also a founder of the first
symphony orchestra in Baghdad and for a number of years was it’s concert master. In the United States he is
recognized as an authority on Arabic music theory and has appeared as a soloist and conductor at Carnegie Hall,
Lincoln Center, Philharmonic Hall and Chicago Opera House. Mr. Obadia once explained in an interview with
Phyllis Saretta, the process he and Mr. Kochak went through when preparing to record one of their Ameraba
recordings. They would begin with the melody line and if it fit with an Arabic style of maqam, that’s what they
used. If the melody line fit minor-major then they played minor-major. The rhythm would command what style
of dance should accompany the piece. He described how the musical arrangement would already be agreed
upon before they entered the recording studio. At least in terms of how many measures or units there would be
used, making these selections a pleasure to choreograph. They were careful to not use odd numbers; both
believing this would make the music easier for a beginning dancer to interpret. However they are a joy to dance
to whether you are a beginning dancer or a well-seasoned professional.
Vol. 1 - This is one of my favorites!
The musicians are:
Eddie "The Sheik" Kochak - Rhythm Tempos
Hakki Obadia - Violin
Mazin "Saleem" Hamdan - Oud
Joseph Kassab - Kanoon
George Marge - Woodwinds
Chuck "Khaleel" Hallal - Derbekee
Ibrahim "Bobby" Farrah - Zils
George Mell - Bass
Fred Elias - Violin

Full Dance Routine

Side 1
43. Medium/Fast (3:15) - This is a good quick intro. Fun to zil with and lends itself well to Turkish Style
dance with it’s heavy drum accents and breaks in the music. There’s even a drum solo, though the piece
is short.
44. Dance (Rhumba) Baghdad (5:33) - This is one of my favorite Bolero melody lines which lasts long
enough to really make your veil work interesting. I also enjoy playing my zils to this. I just love this
piece.
45. Medium 2/4 (2:00) - This is nice, fast, short and sweet. Great for traveling and Turkish steps and hops.
46. Chifti Tempos (5:01) - This chifti will seriously melt your heart with it’s soul shattering solos traded
off between oud, nai and violin. This is really good music!
47. Beledi (1:09) - This is a fun drum and zil solo, one that I know Artemis enjoys too.
 48. Medley Fast Tempos (1:09) - This is a very short, quick finale, the only melody line I can name is Eya
Zien but the other two melodies are very familiar.
Full Dance Routine
Side 2
Full Dance Routine
Side 2
49. Karsilama (3:14) - This is a wonderful fast karsilama with a fabulous Rom sound. Hakki’s violin
playing can even achieve that screaming accent I expect from Turkish Kamanche playing. There is also
steaming hot Clarinet and Kanuan. Loads of fun to zil with.
50. Medium (3:01) - This piece has that joyous Keff (party) sound. Perfect for Eva Cernik style hops, spins
and level changes and I love a piece that speeds up at the finale. It’s always such a fun challenge to
keep up.
51. Fast (3:50) - This is a fast Bolero which is another of my favorites, with very moving violin playing.
This piece also speeds up into a fun little ending.
52. Chifti (4:24) - This chifti begins with a sweet little oud taxim which transitions into a lovely
medium/fast chifti which I enjoy dancing aggressive veil to.
53. Fantasy (oud) (3:30) - This chifti also has a wonderful oud intro and with the chifti being heavily
accented, this piece is perfect for floorwork.
Vol. 2
The musicians are:
Eddie "The Sheik" Kochak - Rhythm Tempos
Hakki Obadia - Violin
Mazin "Saleem" Hamdan - Oud
Joseph Kassab - Kanoon, Vocals
George Marge - Flute, Oboe, Woodwinds
Chuck "Khaleel" Hallal - Derbekee
Ibrahim "Bobby" Farrah - Zils
George Mell - Bass
Hanna Merhige - Derbekee, Tambourine
Mohamed El Accad - Kanoon
Full Dance Routine
Side 1
54. Fast/Moderate Tempo (2:31) - This is a nice fast intro., with breaks for accenting with locks and drops.
55. Chifti Sensual (Rhumba) (2:16) -The intro. segues into a great Rhumba. I love Eddie and Hakki’s
Rhumbas. They’re so poignant and lush they often remind me of old Hollywood sound tracks. This
piece always lulls me into daydreams of Cleopatra’s golden barge slowly drifting down the moonlit
Nile.
56. Beledi Kwayes (1:29) - The chifti above segues into a short quick beledi, nice and lively.
57. Takseems of Slow Chiftis (1:24) - The beledi transitions into a short sensual Chifti, which is perfect for
an unveiling, or a little floor work.
58. Rhythm Solos (2:02) - The chifti segues into a fun drum and zil solo, which picks up into a very
sprightly beledi
59. Tempos for Floorwork (1:01) - Now we slow down with a lovely oud taxim accompanied by violin
and cello (the cello may surprise you but it fits beautifully).
60. Ameraba Style Sheesh Kebob (1:59) - This piece jumps us into a really fast moving and heavily
accented Sheesh Kabob, so much fun to dance to.
61. Different Beledi (1:30) - This segues begins with a drum and zil solo which transitions into a killer
piece with an authentic Fallahin sound.
62. Moderate/fast Finale Toota (1:00) - This finale really sends you flying across the floor and is a delight
to zil with.
Full Dance Routine
Side 2
63. Medley of Songs sung by Joseph Kassab (11:31) - I recognized three different melodies, all sung
beautifully by Mr. Kassab.
• Beginning with a very pleasant and bouncy melody which transitions in to,
• A sweet and poignant Sallam Alay, which speeds up very nicely at the end, bringing us to the
last melody
• Which is a happy and innocently flirtatious song at medium speed.
64. Habeebee Afeefee sung by Eddie Kochak (3:28) - I absolutely love this little song so sweetly sung by
Eddie. It begins with an oud taxim and non-meter singing by Eddie. Perfect for a veil intro. Then it
speeds up in to a great rhythmic section that will send your hips flying and your zils ringing. A really
fun song and one of my favorites.
 INTRODUCTION TO ZILS

ZILS (Turkey), also known as SAGAT (Egypt), or FINGER CYMBALS (USA) are a
set of four small metal discs usually made of brass with holes in the center through which
elastic is inserted to form a loop. These are worn one each, on the middle finger and
thumb of each hand. They also produce three sounds that we will call CLACK, CLICK
and RING.

How to Play:
Put the Zils on your fingers sliding the elastic up to the first knuckle. The elastic should
be very snug. Zils can fly off your fingers traveling at a great speed and can actually
cause some damage if someone is hit in the face, especially if they are wearing glasses! I
didn’ t think it could happen to me, but one day when I was trying to keep up with a really
fast Karsilama a Zil flew off my finger, soared down my hallway and left a deadly
looking dent in the wall. I was relieved it wasn’ t an audience member’ s head! So make
the elastic very tight, your finger might turn blue, but nobody has ever lost a finger from
playing Zils.
The tone referred to as CLACK is produced by cupping your fingers around the back of
the zils and striking them together, in essence muffling the sound vibrations, producing a
flat harsh sound. CLACK is produced by striking the rim of the Zil on the thumb into the
center or edge of the Zil on the middle finger. Producing a light, staccato sound.

Holding the hand in an open posture that I like to describe as “ Barbie Doll hand”
produces the RING. The thumb is facing up, the middle finger is flexed down towards the
thumb and the other fingers are held gracefully away from the zils. This should be a
relaxed and graceful looking posture. Now bring the zils together with a little force, or
energy. Let them strike each other in the center, sliding off each other allowing a
maximum of vibration to “ ring” from the Zils.

Drum rolls are achieved by holding your zils in stacked position. Place a thumb zil on
bottom, place the other thumb zil on top of it, place the first hands middle finger on top of
the other bottom zils and finally place the second hand’ s middle finger on the top of it all.
Now open the zils away from each other so that they will ring. Now flutter the middle zil
against the one above it and below it, striking very quickly. This should cause all the zils
to ring against each other making a wonderful cacophony that’ s great for finales.

The Zils also play the same patterns as the Doumbec and the Tar.