One of the most well-known instruments in Middle Eastern cultures is the goblet drum. There are different names for the drum depending on the part of the Middle East you are from. In Lebanon, it is referred to as a derbake, but other nations have referred to the same drum as darbuka, doumbek, or tablah. For the past 15 years, I have taught myself how to play this drum, and it probably is one of the coolest instruments that I know how to play. It is so fascinating to be able to perform with other Arab musicians and singers with this drum. There is not a single song that is performed without this instrument included in the ensemble. The derbake peaked my interest when I was about 7 years old and noticed this instrument at my uncle’s house. I was never forced to play the instrument, and I never stopped improving my techniques. Not many people my age can say that they can play an Arabic instrument like this, and I am so proud to be able to say as such.
This is really cool! Music is something that is found in cultures across the world, and it is really intriguing to read about how it differs from one culture to another. My brother is a musician, so music is important to him and all of my family. It is really neat how an instrument, such as the drum, can vary culturally and have very different and unique qualities from one culture to the next.
Thats awesome! What a fascinating piece of your culture and I love that you have truly come to understand and appreciate it for yourself. I have never heard of this instrument before, and I liked how you made sure to include the derbake is included in every song. I love your story, thanks for sharing!
I love that you found an instrument so foundational in your culture that it is used in every piece of music. As a dancer, I have been lucky enough to dance with live music, and the derbake seems like the kind of instrument that we would bring into a class and use as our live music. It’s also exciting to find someone who has been interested in learning an instrument so young!
This post is very interesting because I believe that music is something that helps one identify with their culture. As a music enthusiast I listen to music from all cultures. It is so interesting to hear music and enjoy all the cultures through it. Personally, I have always been a huge fan of Middle Eastern music because of the vast amount of instruments that are used. My ancestors are Indian and I have noticed lately that Bollywood has been making a lot of fusion songs with the tablah. It’s amazing that you started to play so early I truly respect you for your talent.