Ethnic Musician

Remo Crystal Doumbek, 8", Internal Tuning, Amethyst Citrine

2011-07-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

I have been hesitant to delve into the realm of the solo sized doumbek drum. Still being of the beginning-intermediate skill level, the size of the head seemed too small to me, and I don't even have large hands. But I recently tested out the Remo Crystal Doumbek, the 8" internal tuning model. This smaller doumbek drum really surprised me, not only with its bold and responsive sound, but just how darn easy and comfortable it is to actually play. Pops and slaps come easy on the 8" Skyndeep head of this great little doumbek. The teks and kas are not metallic and ringy like most aluminum doumbeks, but rather have a bright yet warm tone, reminiscent of a small clay darbuka. You will hear just a small amount of slightly ringy overtones. It actually did take a little extra coaxing for the more powerful teks, but as you become acustomed to the feel of the drum, the teks and kas start to come easier, resulting in a nice woody/ ceramic sound. I am just learning some Turkish split finger technique, and was able to get good results on this Remo Crystal 8". Click on the following link to see me demonstrating on this Remo doumbek.

The Crystal series of doumbeks by Remo are slightly lighter in weight than the Soloist series, but don't be under the impression that these are light and flimsy drums. This is the smallest and lightest of the Crystal Internal Tuning models, and it still weighs in at just over 7lb/ 3.18kg. It feels secure on my lap, yet it is light enough to be playable by smaller adults and older children. The Remo Skyndeep head is a revolutionary synthetic drum head created by the pioneer of synthetic head technology. Doumbek players around the world rave about the sound and response of these unique drum heads. They were designed to look, feel and sound much like an actual fish skin head, with a very slight texture, and amazing response to the touch. And being a synthetic head, they are not prone to changes in humidity levels and weather, and maintain their pitch in all situations. This makes the Remo doumbek very convenient for travel, camping, beach outings, or the back yard!

The "Designer's Touch fabric finishes" on the Crystal doumbeks are… colorful. Festive and wild are two more descriptions that come to mind. At first I was actually a bit put off by the bright colors, not necessarily the design. The designs are actually pretty creative and pleasing. The patterns on this drum look somewhat like snake scales, with darker areas of purples and blues balanced with lighter areas of orange and yellow. There is also a subltle amount of glitter adorning the outside and continuing into the dark purple colored interior. It is definitely an attention grabbing drum, not only visually, but more importantly for how good it sounds. The smooth rounded bearing edge and recessed bolts allow for extended sessions of comfortable playing. In a word, it plays "buttery".

So if you are looking for a versatile and durable drum that travels well, is easy to play, is light on the wallet and sounds great, look no further than the 8" Internal Tuning Remo Crystal Doumbek. Quality constructed in the USA, the Remo line of percussion instruments continue to deliver the consistent affordable quality you have come to expect from them. This great doumbek is no exception to that.

Cairo Caravan 2011

2011-07-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

I recently experienced Cairo Caravan aboard the famous Queen Mary ship, anchored in Long Beach Harbor, California. This 3 day event is organized and hosted every year by MECDA, the Middle Eastern Culture and Dance Association. The primary focus of the event is belly dancing, and there are 3 stages located on the 3 levels that are used, where throughout the day there are amazing performances. In addition, they have workshops and seminars by professional dancers from around the country and world.

The other smaller related focus of Cairo Caravan is on Middle Eastern drumming and percussion, and this is what sparked my interest in the first place. The stars of the weekend for me were Raquy Danziger and Liron Peled, otherwise known as Raquy and the Cavemen. They are professional drummers that have performed and taught workshops around world. Raquy hails from Brooklyn, NY and Liron is from Israel originally. They gave several outstanding performances and workshops throughout the weekend. Raquy plays the doumbek drum and the Kemenche style spike fiddle. She has studied and performed in Egypt with the likes of Said El Artist. Raquy lives part time in Turkey, where she performs as well as studies with master darbuka player Bunjamin Olgucan. Liron has played with Omar Faruk, among many others. His mastery of the "Boom-bek" (large brass doumbek) and many other percussion instruments is impressive. They both also "throat sing", which really blew me away. I had the great pleasure to meet them early in the weekend, as I was involved as an instrument vendor and also stayed aboard the ship for the entire weekend. We hit it off right away, and I had many great times with these super kind and fun people. Raquy is a special person, in touch with her "true self". She practices meditation and yoga regularly, and this reflects in her caring, kind nature, as well as her amazing musical ability. Her energy is completely contagious, and she has many affectionate students that attend her workshops regularly and also perform with her.

There was also a stage located just outside the ship, where there were drumming and belly dancing performances all day. I performed there with Cairo Beats, a collection of doumbek drumming students from my home San Diego that study under Frank Lazzaro. Frank has been on the drumming scene in SD for years, and has performed with some of the greats, including oud master John Bilezikjian. He plays doumbek and percussion with the Middle Earth Ensemble, as well as a full blown kit with the legendary Travel Agents. His drumming abilities span the globe, in that he is a master of many disciplines, including African, Middle Eastern and Latin percussion. He has also been a friend of mine for at least the last ten years.

I had a vendor's table at this great event, representing my online music store Global Musical Instruments. I offered many types of instruments there, with the emphasis being on Middle Eastern percussion. Lots of frame drums, tambourines, riqs, doumbeks, and even a sensemia!

I will definitely be back to Cairo Caravan again next year. The staff that puts it on are so great, and I made many fond connections with so many great people such as organizers Julie, Amy and Blume. Look for the Global Musical Instruments booth, where we will again be selling instruments and sharing great times with the friendly folks there.

The Native American Flute Soothes the Senses

2011-03-05T09:16:00.001-08:00

I love it when I can pick up a completely unfamiliar instrument and easily achieve a nice tone. Some musical instruments just naturally allow one to do this with very little effort or skill necessary. A good example of this would be a keyboard type instrument. You simply press the keys and the machine does the rest. Other instruments are by their design not quite so simple. Flutes are generally in this later category. The most difficult thing to do usually is to control the breath into the flute to achieve a good sound. This is especially true of those types of flutes that require one to blow across the hole, either from the side or across the end, holding the flute at an angle. Both these types of flutes require a certain amount of skill to master, and often cause the novice to give up.
So when I picked up a most attractive cedar flute at the NAMM show this year at my supplier's booth, I assumed that I would not be able to get a decent tone out of it. Flutes are for flute players. I'm a bassist and percussionist. Ed, the technical guru and woodworker at Mid-East Mfg. noticed that I was simply examining the flute and suggested I give it a try. I stammered something about being a bass player, but he insisted. The first thing I noticed about this stunning hand crafted flute is that the hole where you blow is just that, a hole.
"Just blow gently into the end", Ed instructed, "it's simple, no need to blow across the top". He showed me how to line up the flute in my hands, the first three fingers of each hand covering the six holes, right hand below the left. It is tuned to the A minor pentatonic scale, making the fingering easy to learn, creating the mellow sound unique to Native American Flutes. I could not believe how simple it was to get the convincing tone. Ed then showed me some simple tricks like using your tongue to get a quavering effect on the drawn out notes. In no time, I was feeling like a real pro. The pentatonic scale makes the flute intuitive to play. Any combination of notes works, allowing the player the freedom to create natural sounding melodies with ease.
This Native American style flute is a beautiful work of craftsmanship. It is fashioned from solid pieces of aromatic cedar. As you hold and warm it in your hands and play, the flute begins to emit wonderful cedar aromas. It is initialed and numbered by the artist, Native American flute maker Dana Ross, who has Chikasaw heritage. He creates a line of fine wooden flutes utilizing traditional Chikasaw building techniques.

This and other fine ethnic instruments can be found for purchase at GlobalMusicalInstruments.com

The Remo Bendir Brings the Sounds of North Africa to You

2011-01-12T15:19:00.001-08:00

Hailing from North Africa, the bendir or bandir is a frame drum with an ancient history. It has been used by the Sufi in their ceremonies for over a thousand years. Their traditions make use of music, rhythm and dance to achieve higher states of consciousness. The bendir, with it's particular buzzing tone, is believed to accentuate these states. There is a snare stretched along the inside surface of the bendir frame drum head consisting traditionally of gut line. Contemporary bendirs often utilize synthetic material such as fishing line which serves the same purpose. As the player strikes the head on the outside, along with the beat of the drum comes a buzzing tone that has a remarkable drone like quality.

Remo has developed an excellent version that captures the original feel, sound and look of the traditional bendir, but with several advantages. The first is the use of their industry leading synthetic head technology. The Remo Bendir is equipped with a fixed Fiberskyn 3 head, which has been set to the optimum tension in relation to the dimensions of the frame of the drum, utilizing Remo's patented PTS (Pre Tuned System). And since the head is synthetic, it won't be affected by weather and humidity conditions, as is the case with natural hide heads. This is a major advantage to the working musician who counts on his or her instrument to be ready to play no matter where the road may lead them.

The next big difference in the Remo Bendir compared to traditional bendirs is the use of their exclusive Acousticon material. This is made of recycled hard wood fibers which they use to construct their sturdy drum frames. One advantage of this material is that it is not prone to warpage as can be the case with solid wood instruments, due to the grain structure and wood's natural tendency to move even after being dried. With Acousticon you get even tone distribution with none of the "dead spots" that can occasionally plague wood instruments. It is lightweight as well, a real advantage for frame drummers who hold the instrument upright for extended periods of time. The Remo version of this ancient traditional frame drum has an ingenious way of achieving the snare sound that creates the distinct bendir sound. They have a clear thin plastic line that runs double across the inside of the head as it loops back at one end and is tunable and/or removable with the hardware found on the other side attached to the outside of the frame drum shell. (see photo)

I find the Remo Bendir to be meditative and habit-forming, in a good way. The deep shell gives the drum excellent warm mid-bass punch with good sustain, and the edge tek tones have a nice solid ring. The Fiberskyn 3 head projects well, and it's warm sound eliminate potential harsh bright tones. Remo really did their homework to create a version of the bendir that is both completely authentic looking, sounding and playing. And as a real bonus, the synthetic head allows you to achieve consistent tone in just about any location and humidity.

To hear and see the Remo Bendir in action, just click on the Youtube video link below:

Remo Bendir Video

You can purchase your Remo Bendir by visiting http://www.GlobalMusicalInstruments.com

The Electric Frame Oud, a Practical Solution for the Working Musician.

2010-12-28T20:35:00.001-08:00

The Oud is the essential stringed instrument of Middle Eastern and North African music. With it's large pear-shaped body and short fretless neck, topped with the distinct tilted back headstock, the oud stands out. Historically, the oud shares it's ancestry with the European Lute.

But this is not a history lesson about this instrument. It is instead, an examination of a remarkable modern version of this ancient instrument. Influenced no doubt by the electric guitar, the electric frame oud has emerged in recent years. These versatile versions of the oud use for a body a wood frame, with the familiar pear shape, but shallow. Similar then to an electric guitar, the body of the oud is a fairly narrow frame, often with empty space cut-outs between the outer edge of the body and the neck, which extend into the center section of wood that continues to the bridge and and back of the body. And like an electric guitar depends on the electronics and pick-ups to transmit the sound to an amplification system, like-wise the electric frame oud utilizes a pick-up, usually the Piezo type which picks up the sound in the bridge and transmits it to a built-in pre-amp system. Then the sound travels via a standard guitar cord to the sound system or guitar amplifier.

The model I recently tried out was hand crafted by Morad Turki in Egypt. This electric frame oud features a Soho Piezo ceramic pickup with a Soho CT-4 4-band equalizer with volume control and low battery indicator. This allows the player complete control of the volume and tone of the instrument. For live performance and recording situations this is advantageous. And for the traveling musician, the convenience of the slim profile of the instrument is a real blessing, not only for the space savings, but the sturdiness factor as well. Acoustic ouds have a large delicate wood body, requiring a large case, and are inherently much more fragile than a solid wood body electric oud.

This Turki oud has an attractive black metallic pearl finish, and a wonderful teak fingerboard, whose wood grain structure is very attractive and rich looking. The overall finish is good, with a good amount of attention to details. The headstock has the traditional tilted back shape, but is conveniently fitted with modern metal gear-type tuners. These make tuning much easier than the traditional wood peg type tuners found on traditional ouds. They will also hold their tuning very well, which is not always the case with the peg type.

Plugged in, the sound of the pick up is very responsive and also quiet, meaning there is very little to no background hiss noise noticable when not playing. The electronics, pickup and EQ section work flawlessly, providing a nice clean rich tone, that sounds convincingly like a traditional oud, just conveniently amplified. The tone and volume are completely controllable with the controls found just below the bridge on the body for easy access. The equalizer section is especially impressive, allowing the player to completely sculpt the tone of the oud. There are four separate EQ sections, arranged by frequency, namely bass, mid, high, and presence. These are presented as convenient sliders, that act as cut and boost. So the middle position on the slider is flat, and you boost that frequency one way, and cut it by going below the middle position. If it sounds complicated it really is not at all, it's easy to grasp the concept when you fiddle with the sliders a bit. You will also discover that they are very sensitive, and can alter the tone greatly.

The weight of the electric frame oud is fairly light, less than the average electric guitar, but more than an acoustic oud. The combination of cool looks, convenience, playability and sound make this a great oud for all players, especially those that perform, record, or travel. You will be impressed with the Morad Turki Electric Frame Oud, which is available by visiting http://www.GlobalMusicalInstruments.com
Watch my video review of the Morad Turki Electric Oud by clicking on the link below, or by clicking on the "YouTube Videos" tab located at the top of this page.
Electric Oud Video Review

Bellydance Show Review: The Indigo in Serpent Rouge

2010-12-21T18:49:00.000-08:00

I recently attended a really fascinating belly dance show at the Casbah in San Diego, California. It was billed as "Le Serpent Rouge: An Evening of Beguiling Dance and Strangely Familiar Music", and it included the fine belly dancing of world-renowned dancers Rachel Brice, Zoe Jakes, and Mardi Love, a belly dance company collectively known as "The Indigo". In describing their dancing, as they say on their website "The Indigo has created and defined a new style of belly dance, embracing the roots of middle eastern dance while incorporating an aesthetic reminiscent of early twentieth century cabarets and world's fairs."

I really enjoyed the show not only because of the amazing and beautiful dancing, but also for the music and old style cabaret acts. The Crow Quill Night Owls is the name of the assemblage of musicians who play an array of interesting older looking instruments. They include a washboard, acoustic guitar, and banjo. The "drum kit" consists of a suitcase for a kick drum (don't ask me how that works, but it sounds pretty solid), and various other percussive devices. The bass guitar is actually a stick attached to a wash tub with one string that is plucked while varying the tension on the upright stick. Think jug band of the Old South, and yes there is a jug too. The band both accompanies the dancers and fills the gaps in the dancing with a mixture of raucous throw downs and melancholy comedic crooners. The Gallus Brothers ("drums" and "bass"), also provide a couple cabaret style crazy acts involving balancing strangely on each other while singing a song together. It was fascinating to watch if not slightly disturbing.

The real magic is in the entrancing dancing provided by 3 world-class belly dancers. Rachel Brice is a member of the world-famous Bellydance Superstars, as is Zoe Jakes and Mardi Love. Rachel formed the Indigo Dance Company in 2003. She has been performing since 1990 and teaching since 1996. Rachel's graceful serpentine style of movement lends itself perfectly to this project. Her entire body expresses fluidity.

Zoe Jakes' charisma is undeniable. She captures the audience with her mesmerizing eyes and grace. Love's command of belly dance technique is also a pleasure to watch. The dancers perform together in wonderful choreographed routines, and there are also unique solo dances.

Enjoy this YouTube video clip I filmed at the show featuring Zoe Jakes (click on the link below):

Zoe Jakes at the Casbah

Belly dancing has become very popular. It is a great form of exercise and for keeping limber. It's also a wonderful way to meet other people. To purchase a variety of bellydance products, including our famous finger zills, please visit our webstore, specializing in ethnic musical instruments and related products:

http://www.GlobalMusicalInstruments.com

Tamburiq Magic

2010-09-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

The Tamburiq is the latest creation from respected percussion company REMO. This tambourine frame drum is a "hybrid", combining the sound and feel of a Italian Tamburelo and a Egyptian Riq. What results is an amazing instrument that is a joy to play, responsive, lightweight and like nothing else.

When I first opened the package containing the REMO Tamburiq, I was a bit surprised at the size of it. The Acousticon frame measures 12 inches in diameter, so it seemed a little non user friendly. That was until I picked it up and held it. Weighing in at only just over 1.5 LB, the Tamburiq feels very comfortable to hold, and I was able to play it for long periods of time without getting tired. The next thing I noticed was the quality of the German zils/cymbals on it. There are 7 sets of these in one row along the edge of the frame, and they sound very nice. Just the right balance of tone, not too sharp, yet not dull sounding at all. Then I fell in love with the fantastic Skyndeep "Orange Fish" head on the Tamburiq. It is part of the latest innovations in head technology that REMO has developed for his "Global Frame Drums and Tambourines" line. This head has a similar feel and sound of an actual fish skin, but is synthetic. It also has a slight texture, thanks to their Duratec process. The image (while perhaps a bit bright), is embedded into the skin surface, and will not wear off. But the key is the sound of it. The frame of the Tamburiq, as mentioned before, is of their famous Acousticon material, fashioned from recycled hardwoods, resulting in consistent tone and strength, with no weak or "dead" spots. It is finished with a very attracted "Antique" dark brown stain with faux wood grains.

The REMO Tamburiq's Skyndeep head is fixed, yet is inside tunable, allowing for a variety of head tones, depending on the style of music you are playing. I prefer the tighter tone, more similar to an Egyptian Riq, but it can be tuned down for Tamburelo and other sounds. Once you have it set, the synthetic nature of the head will allow it to keep its tune, despite humidity and weather conditions.

I really fell in love with the variety of tones and playing styles that can be achieved with the REMO Tamburiq. It can be played in the traditional Cabaret and standard styles of Egyptian and Turkish riq playing, or it can be simply played like a tambourine. Also, it is easy to play on the lap, or even like a Tar in the standing position. Any way you play it, this incredible instrument is bound to become one of your favorites in your collection.

Please visit the Videos section of this Blog page to view YouTube video reviews of this amazing new instrument. It is available for purchase at Global Musical Instruments by clicking here.

Gawharet El Fan Doumbek Mother of Pearl

2010-08-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

I recently received a shipment of four tabla doumbek drums from Cairo, Egypt. These are of the cast aluminum shell type and are standard tabla sized, decorated with beautiful geometric designs including Mother of Pearl inlay. Each doumbek is unique in its outer designs, and each is amazing to behold and listen to and play. These drums are made by the Gawrahet El Fan company in Egypt. These models are their latest 2010 new generation model tabla, slightly larger and heftier than the preceding model. My connection there is my friend Wade, who personally goes to Egypt and hand picks all of the drums, choosing drums with the most appealing sound, playability and designs and finish. The finish is so smooth as to make one think it is like pure glass.

The tone of these tabla doumbek drums is excellent, with bright ringing teks, and solid sustaining doumbeks. With the upgraded Powerbeat heads replacing the clear standard plastic heads the sound really comes to life. The slaps are solid now, and the overall tone is fuller and more pronounced.

Currently, only the "Red Starburst" remains of the original four, but more of these great tabla doumbek drums, as well as a couple very special Artist El Fan Sombati sized doumbek drums are on their way, so stay tuned!

Best wishes,

GlobalBeats

New improved website coming soon!

2010-08-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

In order to provide our customers with the best possible shopping experience on our website (http://www.GlobalMusicalInstruments.com), we are going to be completely re-building it from the ground up. The current version of the web store has served as a great first step, and has been a fairly functional platform, but has sorely needed an upgrade.

The new GlobalMusicalInstruments.com will have a professional sleek look, utilizing the latest technologies, and designed by a web development and marketing company with 15 years of experience, and a very impressive track record. The new site will also function much more logically and smoothly, allowing you to navigate with ease, and making checkout a breeze. New features such as Live Chat, customer reviews, and regularly updated stock inventory information, will make your experience a pleasure. You will love the animated graphics, high resolution graphics, YouTube videos, blog and much more.

Of course, you will still receive the kind of personalized customer service that you have come to expect with Global Musical Instruments. With professional web technicians designing and maintaining the site, I will have even more time to dedicate to you, the valued customer.

Best wishes,

GlobalBeats

International Shipping

2010-07-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today I packed up a brand new Remo TAR frame drum, as well as one of their incredible sounding and easy playing RIQ tambourines, and made the arrangements for shipment to Japan. These fine frame drums are part of Remo's brand new line of "Global Frame Drums and Tambourines". They feature the new Skyndeep heads with Ultratac, offering the player the closest substitute for an actual animal hide in a synthetic form. These new heads are durable, sound fantastic, and best of all are not affected by the weather and moisture like animal skins.

But I stray a bit. What I was wondering while carefully packing these fantastic instruments was, just how many of my competitors offer this service to their (potential) customers from abroad? From what I understand, not many do at all. And, of those that do, how many offer this service for only a minimal service charge ($2 per order), to do it (above actual shipping costs)?

To offer shipping service to our Global community was something that I wanted to offer from day one. If you are able to read this blog, chances are one of the main postal services can deliver you one of our fine instruments. And now, ordering is available directly on the website. Note: you will be billed separately for the actual shipping charges as it is not possible to calculate this for foreign orders as of yet.

I invite you to explore Global Musical Instruments, where you will find a wide selection of fine instruments and related products from around the World!

Remo introduces the "Global Frame Drums and Tambourines" line.

2010-06-24T21:02:00.000-07:00

Remo has been making frame drums and tambourines with synthetic heads for 30 years, and has been creating some the industry's leading synthetic drum heads for even longer. Remo was a pioneer in the field, and the new Skyndeep heads that are on the new Global Frame Drums and Tambourines line attest to their expertise and experience. Combined with sturdy yet lightweight Acousticon frames and choices of fixed and tunable models in a variety of unique and authentic styles, these fine instruments will serve both the professional and student well.

Remo Belli traveled the World visiting the cultures that play the tambourines and frame drums that would inspire his new line. He had already been making frame drums for years, endorsed by such greats as Glen Velez, Layne Redmond, Alessandra Belloni and others. They recognized from an early stage the advantage of good synthetic heads, the main advantage of which is it's resistance to humidity and weather. This is especially an issue with frame drums, as the larger animal hides of traditional drums absorb moisture readily, thus losing the tension and tone.

The synthetic technology found in these latest Skyndeep heads is truly revolutionary. Actual images of animal hides (goat, snakeskin, fish, reptile) are imbedded into the surface of the skin (except for the new Bodhran, which features the new black Bahia Bass head). They also incorporate Remo's new Ultratac, giving realistic animal-like texture to the playing surface of the Skyndeep head. Perfect thickness and precise mounting ensure that these tambourines and frame drums will be ready to play when taken out of the box.

Remo's Global Frame Drum and Tambourine line includes four models of a Brazilian Pandeiro, two sizes of an Irish Bodhran, a Riq with an inside-tunable "Orange Fishskin" Skyndeep head, a unique hybrid "Tambouriq" that combines the sounds of the Italian Tamburela and the Egyptian riq, three sizes of a new Tar frame drum, a Daf, and Kanjira round out the new line.

Mobile blogging

2010-06-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

Well, this is rough. I found a great app that allows me to now post blogs, complete with photos, on road! So here I sit in the living room, getting ready to watch the last match of the day between Camaroon and Uruguay. At least the ref who made the ridiculous call yesterday against US will not be making the calls today. Actually, word is he is heading back home. That's a shame.

I would like to take a moment to mention that there are a few real nice new products available at GlobalMusicalInstruments.com, so set your pointer there at half time and have a look. These new instruments include three different sized Tar frame drums from Remo, deluxe doumbek bags from Issam Houshan, and new Skyndeep heads from Remo that are designed to fit Arabic tabla sized doumbeks like the GeF very well. Here is a YouTube video I posted where I replace a standard clear head with one of these new Skyndeeps on an Egyptian tabla doumbek:

Please don't hesitate to contact me (Ted), at EthnicSound@gmail.com, or if you are in the US, call my toll-free (1-888-836-2237), or Skype me, username: mabbatt

Best wishes,

GlobalBeats

Location:Rose Dr,San Diego,United States

The new Issam Houshan Signature Riqs have arrived!

2010-06-19T01:43:00.001-07:00

Handmade in Syria under the strict supervision of Issam Houshan, these professional level riqs have the features, playability, and sound that Middle Eastern percussion players look for in a top quality Riq. Issam helped to design the riq, his meticulous requirements result in instruments of unparalleled quality.

The Issam Houshan Signature Riq comes with a very special custom case with a stunning woven geometric pattern on a red background. Also included is a bag strap and tuning tool, found in the zippered pouch.

These fine riqs are available in limited quantities at GlobalMusicalInstruments.com

Remo TAR 22" Frame Drum, Skyndeep® Goat Stripe

2010-06-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

The new line of Remo "Global Frame Drums and Tambourines" has arrived.

2010-04-27T21:29:00.000-07:00

Learn more and purchase by clicking on the image above.

Consciousness is a Singularity

2010-04-06T16:11:00.001-07:00

Universal Mind. It's a concept that is hard to grasp, but has been accepted by many cultures for eons. The concept, as I understand it, is that our collective awareness is a shared thing. That we are all aware through the same source. This collective consciousness concept is awe inspiring, if difficult, to accept and understand.
Today, while scuba diving in the beautiful carribean waters where I am visiting, I saw a sea whip that upon closer inspection, actually helped me grasp this concept. This creature/coral is made of branches that extend from the base. And if you look very closely, you see that it's actually made up of thousands of seperate little groups of tentacles. So each little unit/cluster of tentacles is actually a seperate creature, yet is also part of a much larger being. Each cluster has it's own mini digestive system, and the means to catch and ingest nutrients. Yet each is also part of a greater being, the entire sea fan. And then, as you pull back, you realize that this sea fan is part of the living reef, with more sea whips, corals, fish, etc. Likewise, we are all individuals, yet we share this land, this world, together, whether we like it or not. We are all part of this fragile Globe. And this planet is part of this Solar System, and so on, and so on. While we each have our own lives, we are all part of the same thing. While this comparison may be a stretch for some, to me it helps in understanding the concept of collective consciousness. We need not sacrifice our individualities for this, but we should realize that we are all in this together. All beings of Earth share it, and therefore should respect it.
We are all One in Spirit. Namaste.

Frame Drum Workshop Review - Weaving Rhythm and Melodic Voice

2010-03-04T21:56:00.000-08:00

I was pleased to participate in a great frame drumming workshop recently, up in Marina Del Rey, Los Angeles area. This workshop was titled "Introduction to Frame Drumming, Weaving Rhythm and Melodic Voice". The instructor was Miranda Rondeau, who is well known as one of the finest female frame drummers around. She was mentored by Layne Redmond, whose impact on the frame drumming world is undisputed. Layne is considered one of the foremost authorities on frame drumming, and has published books on the history of frame drumming, which is a rich. Layne has also recorded and performed with some of the finest musicians in the world, as has Miranda. Other famous frame drummers include Glen Velez, David Kuchermann, and Alessandra Beloni, just to name a very few.

Back to the workshop. I arrived a bit early, having travelled a couple of hours drive from San Diego and was not sure how the traffic would be. The workshop was conducted at a private home, tucked away on a nice quiet road nearby the hustle and bustle of Marina Del Rey. There was a nice large room, with a sliding glass door leading to a quiet little garden outside. She had several frame drums of varying sizes lying out in the middle of the class area. There was also a beautiful little statue of Buddha and incense burning in the middle, arranged like a little shrine. She was cleansing the area with the sweet smell of the incense. Eventually everyone arrived and we got started. There were only five students, which made for a more personal experience. Miranda explained that the term frame drum is used for any drum where the diameter of the head is greater than the depth of the body of the frame drum. She then showed us the proper way to hold the frame drum when playing in a standing position. There is usually a notch cut out or a thumb hole so that one may rest the drum vertically in the less dominant hand, thumb pointing up, and the middle finger strikes the outer edge to produce the "tek" tone. With your right hand, at about the three o'clock position, you rest your thumb near the edge and use it as a pivot to create the "doum", "tek" and "kah" strokes. She discussed how these strokes are associated with the Elements: Water = Doum, Fire = Tek and Teka, Earth = Kah, and Air = the brushing stroke. These associations come from old frame drumming traditions, dating back thousands of years.

Next, she illustrated how one can utilize stepping, such as back and forth in one spot, in conjunction with the rhythm patterns we were creating on the drum. This helps one keep time, as well as remember where you are in the pattern. Then we added melodic voice to coincide with the strokes. This was done in a call and response manner, with Miranda singing the first measure of the pattern, and the class repeated it on the next. We were all stepping back and forth in the meantime. It was really cool when everyone was locked in and we were making music and singing too!

You do not have to be that musically inclined to be able to take up and enjoy the frame drum. You would be surprised at how quickly even the most seemingly untalented people at the workshop were able to utilize the stepping and melodic voice to help create the memory patterns to sync with the rhythm. I was amazed. By doing this combination, it helps you get back on track when you lose the beat, because if you are still stepping you can remember which foot gets the doum, etc. And if you lose the step, the stroke pattern will get that back on step. And finally, by vocalizing the strokes, you create memory patterns as well. It is a great way to practice the frame drum, get a little exercise, and do a little spontaneous singing too!

Miranda concluded the workshop with a wonderful performance/demonstration, where she played several of her styles of frame drums, including the tamburela, the riq, and other sized frame drums with different heads on them, producing a wide variety of sounds. Please have a look this YouTube video that Miranda posted, where she demonstrates the basics of what we learned. You will be mesmerized by this gentle and talented Spirit.:

Frame Drum and Melodic Voice

If you ever have an opportunity to attend one of Miranda's workshops or performances, I would highly recommend that you do. You will have a wonderful time and will learn so much about this amazing instrument.

A quality rosewood bodhran is good to find.

2010-02-07T19:49:00.000-08:00

Here at Global Musical Instruments, we are constantly on the look out for new quality instruments to add to our catalog. Recently we discovered an awesome new rosewood bodhran. This amazing frame drum is constructed of solid rosewood. The wood grain of this bodhran is something to behold. There is a fine goat skin hide stretched over the bodhran frame, and it is inside tunable. This convenient bodhran feature will allow you to stay one step ahead of the changing weather conditions.
The deep dimensions of this fine bodhran will produce great low tones and the warmth of the wood will accentuate this. Check out this bodhran here, and let us know if you have any questions about this fine instrument.

Dueling Doumbeks

2010-02-05T11:11:00.001-08:00

If you are into doumbeks, darbukkas, derbekkis, dumbeks, tablas, sumbatis, dohollas or any of these goblet shaped drums, then YouTube is the place for you!

In my quest to see these drums in the hands of experts, I have found many awesome performances. One of my favorite players is the world famous Issam Houshan. I have had the pleasure of establishing a good business relationship with him, as well as friendship. Issam was here in San Diego for a workshop and performance. I attended both. Issam showed us some great techniques. His skills are unmatched. He is also a genuinely nice person.

So if you are interested in this type of drum, visit YouTube and put any of the many names for this amazing drum in the search field. There are also great videos of dueling doumbeks. A good starting place is my YouTube channel, http://www.YouTube.com/mabbatt

Song of the week.

2009-11-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

Mohamed_Roushdy_la-la-yalkhayzarana

la la ya elkhayzaranah .. fe el hawa mayaloky
oh no no, you bambo girl ( as slim girl ), in love it bends you.

la la we en mayaloky .. malet el rouh maaky
no no, even they were bending you, the soul has bent with you.
..
la la , ya ahel el malama , ma teolo kelma aany
no no poeple who blame, don't say any words about me.

dah habiby loh ebtesama , betakhodny ghasb aany.
this is my love that has a smile, take me by force.

asmar we ouono soda , katala , ah ya einy
she is tanned, and her black eyes kills, oh eyes.

fe shaaro warda bedaa,, sheba fe shar layli
a white rose in her hair, as gray in my night's hair.

----

la la ya elkhayzaranah .. fe el hawa mayaloky
oh no no, you bambo girl ( as slim girl ), in love it bends you.

la la we en mayaloky .. malet el rouh maaky
no no, even they were bending you, the soul has bent with you.

la la we geat leahly , ma teolo feen tareay
no no, and even I get back to my folks, they don't even say about my way.

elasmar adah we nadahly radeet adeny
tanned came by and said my name, I replied I am here...
amrak , wa allah ya sedy , alby mabaash fe eidy
by your order, oh God, my heart isn't in my hands anymore.

we mesheet wara habiby, ma khalas laaet naseby
and I walk following my love, oh finally I found my path.

___

la la ya elkhayzaranah, fe el hawa mayaloky
oh no no, you bambo girl ( as slim girl ), in love it bends you.

la la we en mayaloky, malet el rouh maaky
no no, even they were bending you, the soul has bent with you.

la la ya reem wadena, haseb we allah alina
no no, you the crown on our valley , take care for God sake of us.

da ehena fedak einena, asheken madeen edena
we might sacrifice you by our eyes, we are extending our hands to you for love.

netlaa kelma menak , aw nazerah we ebtesama
we wish to receive a word or a look and a smile from you.

hata en masaalesh albak , netmana loh el salama
even if your heart does not respond, we wish you safety and peace.

Wela.

Song For this week..FAKERNI..Haifa Wehbe (from Facebook friend Saharna Belly Beauty)

2009-11-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

Song For this week..FAKERNI..Haifa Wehbe

tomorrow the desire will call you
bokra el shouq yenadeek

-you though me will blame you, and accounting you
fakerni haatbak, we alomak we ahasbak

-you though me will blame you, and accounting you
fakerni haatbak, we alomak we ahasbak

-tomorrow the desire will call you
bokra el shouq yenadeek

-and see you with me, asking my agreeing
we ashofak maaya, we totlob redaya

-tomorrow you will see with your own eyes daring
bokra teshoof be eineek ya habiby

-if you think my feelings is a game, wake up for yourself, wakeup
law faker ehsasy leaba, fouk lenafsak fouk

-tomorrow the remoteness will make your heart suffer, make it melt from the desire
bokra el bood yazeb albak we yedawob mel shouq

-if you think my feelings is a game, wake up for yourself, wakeup
law faker ehsasy leaba, fouk lenafsak fouk

-tomorrow the remoteness will make your heart suffer, make it melt from the desire
bokra el bood yazeb albak we yedawob mel shouq

-and see you with me, asking my agreeing
we ashofak maaya, we totlob redaya

-tomorrow you will see with your own eyes daring
bokra teshoof be eineek ya habiby

-Sure you will stay awake for nights , and your heart will keep in fire
yama hatesehar baad layali we kalbak ayed nar

-You will feel all what happened to me , and come back confused
hatehes bekol ele garaly we tegeny mehtar

-Sure you will stay awake for nights , and your heart will keep in fire
yama hatesehar baad layali we kalbak ayed nar

-You will feel all what happened to me , and come back confused
hatehes bekol ele garaly we tegeny mehtar
-and see you with me, asking my agreeing
we ashofak maaya, we totlob redaya

-tomorrow you will see with your own eyes daring
bokra teshoof be eineek ya habiby

-you though me will blame you, and accounting you
fakerni haatbak, we alomak we ahasbak

-you though me will blame you, and accounting you
fakerni haatbak, we alomak we ahasbak

-tomorrow the desire will call you
bokra el shouq yenadeek

-and see you with me, asking my agreeing
we ashofak maaya, we totlob redaya
-tomorrow you will see with your own eyes daring
bokra teshoof be eineek ya habiby

REMO presents DRUMS OF ILLUMINATION

2009-10-27T09:04:00.001-07:00

REMO presents
DRUMS OF ILLUMINATION
Women and Frame Drums from Around the World
Workshops and concert honoring the feminine, healing power of the drum

November 7 & 8, 2009
Remo Recreational Music Center,
7308 Coldwater Canyon Blvd
North Hollywood, California

for women and men; no previous experience necessary

Featuring:
ALESSANDRA BELLONI, JUDY PIAZZA, MIRANDA RONDEAU & DANA MAMAN
with special guest dance artists

WORKSHOPS:

Saturday, November 7
1:00 - 3:00 Miranda Rondeau
Introduction to Frame Drums

3:30 - 5:30 Dana Maman
Pandeiro and Rhythms of Brazil

~~~~~~~

Sunday, November 8

1:00 - 3:00 Judy Piazza
Middle Eastern Rhythms for Riq & Tambourine

3:30 - 6:00 Alessandra Belloni
Southern Italian Tambourine & Trance Dance

Alessandra Belloni - artistic director, internationally renowned tambourine virtuoso, singer, dancer, actress, author - REMO artist -
http://www.alessandrabelloni.com
http://alessandrabelloni

Judy Piazza, internationally known and recognized for her extraordinary talents, skilled teaching, and generous spirit.
http://www.resonanceandrhythms.com
http://www.myspace.com/judypiazza

Miranda Rondeau, Devotional singer frame drum artist, and teacher passionate creator of online Women Frame Drumming
http://www.myspace.com/womenframedrumming http://www.myspace.com/mirandarondeau

Dana Maman, musician involved with capoeira and Afro-Brazilian drumming for over 10 years, studying primarily under Mestre Amen Santo.
http://www.danamaman.com

Fees: Two days, including 4 workshops & concert, $125
One day, $ 75 (includes concert)
Concert Only, $15
Remo Recreational Music Center
www.remo.com
7308 Coldwater Canyon Blvd
North Hollywood , CA 91605
Phone: (818) 982-0461

For pre-registration: Mail check or MO by November 2 to Judy Piazza, PO Box 1825,
Ojai, CA 93024, 248-563-0049

Payment at the door accepted by cash or check

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

REMO PRESENTS:

DRUMS OF ILLUMINATION CONCERT
Women and Frame Drums from Around the World
Saturday November 7th, 7:30pm

ALLESSANDRA BELLONI, JUDY PIAZZA,
MIRANDA RONDEAU & DANA MAMAN

with special dance artists
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=172882769936&v=wall
Vida Vierra, Dani Dunn of Swing Brazil,
Chore' Sircello & Joyce Ferrer

Join this unique ensemble of internationally recognized women artists as they summon feminine power with Frame Drums, voice, and ritual dance from ancient healing and musical traditions around the world, including southern Italy, Brazil, Africa, India and the Middle East. Don't miss this fiery global percussive journey in honor of the feminine principle, for women and men alike!

at Remo Recreational Music Center
www.remo.com,
7308 Coldwater Canyon,
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 982-0461

$15.00 ticket price.
For advance sales: Send payment to
Judy Piazza
PO Box 1825
Ojai, CA 93024
(check or money order).

Special advance inclusive price of $125 for workshops and concert.

Isaam Houshan Signature Riq - California - tribe.net

2009-10-17T01:39:00.000-07:00

Isaam Houshan Signature Riq - California - tribe.net

Skyndeep heads on sale.

2009-10-03T12:04:00.001-07:00

Check out my website for great deals on Remo Skyndeep heads:

http://www.GlobalMusicalinstruments.com

TURKU is preforming this Sunday (10/4... - WORLD MUSIC - tribe.net

2009-10-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the link:
TURKU is preforming this Sunday (10/4... - WORLD MUSIC - tribe.net

Frame drum ladies, check it out!

2009-08-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

(This is from a Facebook group)

HI Frame Drum Ladies,

I hope you are all doing well, staying cool and playing some good rhythms.

I just returned from teaching a wonderful drumming retreat at Harbin Hot Springs and am all jazzed up to offer more workshops! I would like to invite you all to a three week drumming intensive in September, where we will focus on learning the Frame Drum in all three styles, as well as traditional Middle Eastern and Sufi Rhythms and tricks and tools for how to easily improvise. Drums are provided and all levels are welcome.

LINK FOR LOS ANGELES WORKSHOP
http://www.facebook.com/msmarlaleigh?ref=name#/event.php?eid=150406360358&ref=ts

If you live in the Los Angeles area and can not make the dates of the workshops, you may consider having a few private lessons. I am offering a special 15% off if you purchase two lessons or more in advance.

If you do not live in the Los Angeles area and are interested in experiencing these magical drumming workshops, I am excited to now be offering special drumming weekend intensives ANYWHERE that people are interested in learning... its all about sharing that amazing drumming medicine! Please contact me for more information.

Thank you + Happy Drumming,
Marla Leigh

Layne Redmond demo video

2009-08-09T17:59:00.000-07:00

Check out this video clip of Layne Redmond demonstrating the riq. Her signature Remo riq is available at www.GlobalMusicalInstruments.com

Update from Jef Stott

2009-08-04T22:17:00.000-07:00

August 2009

Jef Stott/ Embarka Records Summer Newsletter
West coast dates with Makyo
Greetings! Hello all seems like it has been a while since I sent out a transmission to you. and it has, the last big update went out in March! Since then we have been anything but idle.

June saw the completion of my Masters Degree in Multimedia and the presentation of the Subtle Body Project at the Maker Faire and at CSU East Bay.
July brought out Sayat Nova, a new track on Six Degrees Records
and now August is bringing my dear friend Makyo to California for a
West Coast tour.
Details about all of this and more to follow.

Jef Stott /Producer/ Embarka Records
Big Event 8/8 Sanctuary II
featuring Makyo (Tokyo) Shulman (Israel) Dragonfly and many more

We are very proud to welcome Makyo back to the US for a summer tour!
Makyo has been very influential in my career of late as he brought
me out to Japan in 2007 for a nationwide tour, released Lumin's
"Ketri" on his label Dakini Records and recently put out a fine
collection of tracks this year called "Tribal Matrix 2". He and I
are doing several shows in the Bay Area in the coming weeks and we
begin with a bang this Saturday night at Sanctuary II
Koinonea in association with The Groove Garden and SubMerge presents:
***Sanctuary II***
an intimate evening of global groove music
featuring:
Makyo (Dakini records, Japan)
Shulman (Aleph-Zero records, Israel)
Jef Stott (Six Degrees)
Dj Dragonfly (Groove Garden)

Saturday, 8/8/09 10pm-7am
at the Sanctuary for the Arts
Oakland, Ca

with:
Outersect (Aleph Zero/Heart's Eye) featuring Betsy-La
Groove Yantra (Turiya Sounds)
Chlorophil (Cosmic Leaf/Ajana/Synchronos)
Lighting :: Radiant Atmospheres
Bellydancing :: Ayesha
Live painting :: Jessica Perlstein

Event is at a beautiful historic church
Near Macarthur BART, in Oakland, CA
exact address will be sent to ticket holders

This is an Underground Party. To get the exact address, one must
purchase a ticket first. Then show information will be available.
This show is going to sell out!
The event will be pre-sale only and tickets are $26 with no
additional ticketing or service fees.
tickets are availvable on line only and can be purchased at the link
below
We hope you will join us!

Sanctuary Tickets
Makyo/Dakini Records
New Releases
Sayat Nova on Six Degrees of the Middle East

I jumped back into the studio in June and came out with a great
track Sayat Nova, for this new Six Degrees compilation "Six Degrees
of the Middle East".
The track is a deep downtempo gem featuring the Armenian duduk and
dubstep style grooves.
You can hear it on my homepage and it is available on Itunes and the
Six Degrees sites. Links are below.
Also the album I produced with Eliyahu and Qadim has been very well
received spending several weeks on the Billboard World Music Top 10
Charts.
The album is featured this week on the Six Degrees blog Global Noize
with a free track from the album.

Jef Stott website
Sayat Nova on Six Degrees
Qadim on Global Noize
Subtle Body Project
Thesis Project from CSU East Bay Multimedia Graduate Program

In June I received my Master Degree in Multimedia from California
State University East Bay.
My thesis project was the Subtle Body, an interactive multimedia
installation using biofeedback from brainwaves and galvanic skin
response to create a unique audiovisual experience.
The project was extremely successful, being presented both at the
Maker Faire and at our Departments public exhibition.
I am planning on developing this project through the coming year as
both an art project and a potential business opportunity.
The subject matter and fields of research used in this project,
(neuroscience, biofeedback, music therapy) are very hot at the
moment and hope to be part of this fascinating development in
science and human consciousness.
I have included a link to a video about the project on our new
website, which is still under construction.
I hope you enjoy it. And if you have business ideas about the
Project please contact me. Thanks!

Upcoming San Diego Bellydance show

2009-07-22T14:55:00.001-07:00

Middle-Earth Ensemble performs mid-east fusion music, with bellydance by Sabrina Fox and Sultana Rose, open dancing!

http://www.middleearthband.net

Sun. July 26, 8pm
The Turquoise Cafe Bar Europa
873 Turquoise St.
North Pacific Beach San Diego
858.488.4200
$10 cover or $8 Online at http://www.theturquoise.com/calendar/calendar.php

Bellydance show in San Diego

2009-07-13T23:31:00.000-07:00

If you are in San Diego, California this coming Thursday, July 16, you can see a great bellydance showcase. Frank Lazarro is an accomplished doumbek player/percussionist/drummer, and will be joined by special guests John Bilezikjian and Dave Dhillon. This promises to be a fantastic evening of music and dance. The doumbek stylings of Frank and his friends will accompany the beautiful bellydancers.

Click on the image for more information about this and all of Frank Lazarro's musical projects. His band Middle Earth just released their latest cd, which will be reviewed in a future blog post. Stay tuned for this and an artist spotlight on Frank, a well respected doumbek player and excellent all around percussionist and musician.

NPR Music: World

2009-07-09T21:22:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already viewed this blog, its certainly worth your while. You can subscribe to their feed (look to the right, down a bit). A very comprehensive World Music resource.

To find it, scroll down to my list of my blog subscriptions on the right, and click on the NPR Music: World link or copy this link into your browser:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=10004&ft=1&f=10004

Where are the World Music Festivals?!

2009-07-08T20:29:00.001-07:00

Every year the big music festivals come around, and while they all seem to advertise having a full gamut of musical styles, it always seems to be the same bands every year. Now, of course I am generalizing a bit here, but bear with me. Lets take the High Sierra Music Festival that just happened over the weekend. Hmmm, surprise, surprise, its the usual mix of jam bands tossed in with a taste of reggae and a "bluegrass" band or two, maybe a singer songwriter. Not a sitar, doumbek, djembe, bagpipe, or the like in sight! (or earshot). Nothing against Tea Leaf Green, ALO, Umphries McGee and the like, I love you guys! But I've seen you at every one of these cookie cutter festivals. The same smelly burn-out kids, various Phish heads, and the ever present dead head. I love you too! But...will someone please turn me/us onto some festivals with a real variety of music, including ethnic, world, non-western music?
They have got to be out there. Right?
PS- There is one smaller music festival that has been going on for a few years now that always provides a great line-up of music and musical styles, many from other countries. This is the Joshua Tree Music Festival, in Joshua Tree, California. Definitely worth checking out:

www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com

Music will save the World!

Where are the World Music Festivals?!

2009-07-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

Have a great holiday weekend!

2009-07-03T00:39:00.001-07:00

Here's wishing you and your loved ones a very fun and safe fourth of July!

Watch live music!

The Meditation of Sitar

2009-07-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

For me, its got to be the drone. That all too familiar note, heard so many ways, but yet somehow always the same. Whether its the chanting of the Buddhist monks in the high mountains of Tibet, or the drone of the Aboriginal Didjeridoo proclaiming its message to the Australian outback, its all somehow the same and connected. Its something primal, something that beckons to our core, the indiscribable feeling of ultimate Zen.

The Sitar is the perfect example of this Universal note. As I listen to Ravi Shankar begin his performance, he begins with this drone, the sympathetic note that so defines this beautiful music. He is accompanied during this concert with a Sur Bahar player, which is a deeper bass version of the Sitar, and a Tampura player providing the sympathetic drone . Also joining them are two Tabla players.

After establishing the drone, we are lead on a journey as the Sitar notes play along, like a butterfly carelessly flittering in the wind. The notes just seem to to naturally fall into place, and the bends add a sense of emotion and feeling. Like the Sitar is telling its sad tale of suffering and hardship. It is truly an instrument with a voice.

International Shipping

2009-07-01T02:21:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to share my thoughts on International Shipping. I recently added this service to my website business. Being Global Musical Instruments, my goal from the start was to offer instruments from around the world to people around the world. Having checked into shipping rates, I quickly discovered that many of these rates are quite high, and were actually prohibitive. Fortunately, a potential customer from New Zealand discovered that the USPS offers reasonable rates on their International Priority mail service, so this will probably become the most common type of shipment chosen.

Remo Ergo Soloist Doumbek

2009-07-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

We recently tried out the new Ergo Soloist Doumbek from Remo™, which features the Ergo- Drum System™. It has a very comfortable ergonomically designed counter hoop, bearing edge and recessed tuning bolts, which allows for hours of comfortable playing, and the feel of a smooth ceramic edge.
The body of the drum is fashioned from their Acousticon® drum shells. This is a proprietary technology which changes post consumer and industrial wood waste into their revolutionary drum shells. This results in superior shell consistency, lighter weight, and durability. They are hand manufactured from 100% recycled wood fiber in the USA. This commitment for reducing waste and recycling has earned them the California Waste Reduction Award every year since 1998. Way to be green, Remo™!
This doumbek equipped with the awesome SKYNDEEP™ Diplomat® Drumhead, which has the look and sound reminiscent of traditional Middle Eastern fish skin heads. The result is a fantastic doumbek that has the warm sound and feel of a ceramic doumbek, with the tone of a fishskin head. Deep warm doums, and nice sharp tek, ka, and slap sounds as well. While it is lightweight, it does weigh in at 10lbs., so it will stay firmly rested on your leg in the traditional doumbek playing fashion. Check out more here.