Doumbek
The doumbek, or goblet drum, is a goblet shaped, hollow body percussion instrument with a single head stretched over the top. It is approximately 43 cm in height and is played by striking the head with different parts of bare hands and fingers.
Doumbeks are generally used in classic Middle Eastern music, Darbuka music and other world music genres.
When you borrow a doumbek from RPL, you will receive it in a case to protect it.
An instrument in good condition makes better music. Please see our Care and Respect video below, to learn how to take care of the doumbek while you have it.
Never played before? No problem! You can also access free step-by-step video lessons for a variety of instruments through our digital services:
LinkedIn Learning
Gale Courses
Kanopy
Instrument photos courtesy of Vancouver Public Library
Videos
Tutorials
• Arab Instruments - Doumbek (basic doumbek lessons)
• Gregory Cain (introductory doumbek lessons)
• Art of Arabic Drumming by Trevor Salloum (lessons from Trevor Salloum on Youtube)
• KarWil's Darabuka (lessons on Youtube)
Helpful Links
• Jas' Middle Eastern Rhythms FAQ (overview on traditional Middle Eastern rhythms, including audio clips and notation)
• Quick and Dirty Guide to the Doumbek (beginning tips and tricks)
• Arabic Maqam World (information, notation and sound clips of Arabic rhythms)
Helpful Apps
• Doumbek! (iTunes) (virtual doumbek)