Darbuka

Turkish Darbuka

Darbuka, also known as dümbelek, is one of the percussion musical instruments used in the Balkans, especially in the Middle East. The goblet-shaped drum, played with the hands and fingers in a characteristically horizontal position, produces a wide dynamic tonal range. It has many models according to body material, head diameter and design.

Most Popular Darbuka Varieties

Darbukas are generally classified as Egyptian, Turkish, Arab and Oriental darbuka. Egyptian darbuka, one of the most popular darbuka models, helps calm the nerves with its soft timbre. The melodious melodies it produces are great for the ears. It is traditionally made from goat skin or fish skin. Although there are metal versions of Egyptian darbuka, when you want to get a deep sound, models made of natural leather are more ideal. The instrument is played by placing it on the knee. Turkish darbuka is characterized by its sharp edges and flat head design compared to Arab darbuka. It gives a metallic sound thanks to its sharply defined lines. Some models may also have cymbals for additional tones. Compared to other models, Turkish darbuka is more difficult to play compared to other models, as it requires a highly developed playing style.

Advantageous Darbuka Prices

Darbukes can be made from a variety of materials such as fiber, casting, copper, and pottery. Daruka prices have a wide range according to material quality, design features and workmanship. Casting drums are made of cast iron. Plastic or synthetic leather is used in the remaining parts of the darbuka, depending on the properties of the iron. The leather size of the cast darbuka, which is inspired by the pot tambour design, is usually 22 cm. The body of the classic pottery or ceramic darbuka models is made of soil. In the leather department, natural leather products obtained from animals such as goats or cattle are used. Since the skin can expand as a result of temperature differences, it is often out of tune. Therefore, it is difficult to use in areas where temperature differences are intense. It is not resistant to impacts and falls due to its sensitive body. In bass cast darbuka models, synthetic leather is used instead of natural leather. Since it has a more metallic tone compared to pottery types, it is especially preferred in live performances. Copper darbuka models are slightly different from classical Egyptian darbuka because both the body and the ring design are different. Although the general design principles are similar, copper darbuka are unique with their features such as allowing the use of synthetic leather. Goat or kid skin is used in the leather part of copper darbuka. It is also common to use synthetic leather to prevent it from being affected by weather conditions. In copper darbuka played with the left hand with the flick technique, balance is provided with the left hand. For this reason, the balance of the head and tail sections in terms of weight is not considered an important feature when purchasing the darbuka.

Things to Consider for the Best Darbuka

The most important factor to consider carefully in the darbuka purchase is the darbuka size. Darbukas are produced in sizes varying between 13.5 cm and 28 cm. The specified size is the diameter of the drumhead head. Generally, any model under 20 cm in diameter is considered too small to be played. A tambourine with the ideal size for high musical performance allows you to use your hands comfortably and to sit comfortably on your lap. It is often difficult to play very small darbuka, to apply hand techniques and to achieve the desired tone. It is the most popular and ideal range for 22 and 23 cm darbuka. For example, the 22 cm darbuka is ideal for musicians of all ages, whether children or adults. Especially the 22cm professional models are good enough that proficient musicians can work comfortably with the bass and high notes.