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The Doumbek, in the goblet drum family (also chalice drum) has many names in different cultures. It is a goblet shaped hand drum used mostly in Arabic, Assyrian, Persian, Balkan, Greek, Armenian, Azeri and Turkish music. Its thin, responsive drumhead and resonance help it produce a distinctively crisp sound. Though it is not known exactly when it was made it is known to be ancient of origin. Doumbeks are played with a much lighter touch and quite different strokes (sometimes including rolls or quick rhythms articulated with the fingertips) than hand drums such as the djembe, found in Africa.
There are two main types of goblet drums. The Egyptian style has rounded edges around the head, whereas the Turkish style exposes the edge of the head. The exposed edge allows closer access to the head so finger-snapping techniques can be done, but the hard edge discourages the rapid rolls possible with the Egyptian style.
The goblet drum may be played while held under one arm (usually the non-dominant arm) or by placing it sideways upon the lap (with the head towards the player's knees) while seated. Some drums are also made with strap mounts so the drum may be slung over the shoulder, to facilitate playing while standing or dancing. It produces a resonant, low-sustain sound while played lightly with the fingertips and palm. Some players move their fists in and out of the bell to alter the tone. There are a variety of rhythms that form the basis of the folkloric and modern music and dance styles of the Middle East.
There are two main sounds produced by the goblet drum. The first is called the 'doum'. It is the deeper bass sound produced by striking the head near the center with the length of the fingers and palm. The second is called the 'tek' and is the higher-pitched sound produced by hitting near the edge of the head with the fingertips. A 'tek' struck with the secondary hand is also known as a 'ka'. Additionally, there are more complex techniques including snaps, slaps, pops and rolls that are used to ornament the basic rhythm. Hand clapping and hitting the sides of the drum can be used in addition to drumhead sounds. |
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Doumbek Instruction
Learn to play your Doumbek with our selection of instructional Books & CD's. |
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Doumbek, Heads
Measure your Doumbek carefully; then choose the head that'll fit your drum. |
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Doumbek, Metal
Metal Doumbeks with embossed nickeled brass shells, with or without jungles. Choose your style of head. |
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REMO Doumbek
The Doumbek plays a central role in both popular and classical Middle-Eastern music and is often heard in ensembles with the Riq and Tar. Choose from the REMO Pre-Tuned Doumbek, Crystal & Soloist Doumbek with Ergo-Drum System and the Diane Metalized Doumbek. |
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Zarb
The Zarb or Persian Tonbak. |
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Doumbek, Brass
Embossed brass Doumbek shells, with or without jungles, and choose your style of head. |
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Doumbek, Copper
Hand hammered copper Doumbek shells, plain or erzincan design. |
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Doumbek, Fiberglass
This breakthrough Doumbek design has a fiberglass body and a fixed synthetic head. Its deep Doums and high Teks will surprise you. |
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