Doumbek Technique and Rhythms for Arabic Percussion, with Amir Naoum: Beginner level Doumbek instruction, Doumbek how-to, Play Doumbek for belly dance

This was purchased to give to someone who was going to be buying a doumbeck drum from me. I have another review of this DVD from probably over 10 yrs ago. Best beginner’s guide for learning to playing the doumbek and for learning the rhythms.

I have owned my doumbek about 4 months. I've worked pretty hard at it from material off the internet (which I really appreciate), from a drum circle of peers, and from group drumming at parties. I just got into a quartet: guitar, mandolin, fiddle, & doumbek. Although many of my peers have more experience than I do, there is only one whom I would consider to be a 'good' drummer. The others I am surpassing, because I understand better than they do and because I work harder than they do. The implication is: I've got to keep at it!I am also a decent amateur musician. I have an ear for sounds, timing, and style. It comes with experience.This DVD is incredible! The Master is a master! He is very personable. I felt I was in private audience. However, I can imagine some finding disappointment. Why? Because this is mostly like a single lesson, a master class. Thus my title. If you buy this DVD you are buying a lesson, a wonderful lesson. Things are taught that are easy. Things are demonstrated that are challenging. Most of all, you get to meet the Master and hear what he has to say! And because I have it on DVD, I can relive it on demand!Here's what I got from the DVD:First, the exercises. They get me warmed up; practiced in patterns I need to know; and improve my rhythm, tone, and speed.Second, the rhythms of basic reportoire and variation.Third, the clincher: I learned the weaknesses of the path I was following. I learned a 'philosophy' of doumbek. This is what is amazing for a Master to accomplish without hearing me.This DVD stresses the importance of the left hand and exercises it. It seems designed with awareness of the weaknesses of my experience. Why? My experiences were based on a fairly broad research of middle eastern drumming. I was following a common path. I was neglecting 'tek'. Sometimes I would drum left-handed, just to give the left hand something to do and give the right hand a break.'Core rhythm' is emphasized. This, I was finding on my own. However, my peers don't seem to grasp it. They seemed to be mechanical, menu-driven. Without a sense of core, you cannot improvise effectively. You have got to know where you are coming from so you can get back to it.My drumming is now better and will grow better yet. Mission accomplished!I hope all others can glean from this DVD what I have. See you in the circle!

This DVD is a very good choice for beginners and it also serves as good reference material for intermediate percussionists like myself.The instructor is very clear and his technique is superb. The video starts with simple but important exercises that get more and more complex. All main Arab rhythms are covered and there are some nice demonstrations of what they sound like in a performance.The one thing that is missing is an actual performance, where the viewer could see the different rhythms in a whole song, as well as have a taste of more advanced techniques, which are not addressed in this DVD.If you want to start to learn how to play the doumbek or want to improve your basic technique this video is a must. It's probably useful for bellydancers and other musicians wanting to get familiarized with Arab rhythms.Hope it helps.

Have you been itching to get drumming with a dumbek? Amir will get you going with everything you need to know to get started! The DVD is divided into convenient sections covering a welcome/introduction, rhythms, practices, and demo. You learn about the dumbek, how to hold the instrument comfortably and how to perform your first few beats. Then you can proceed with the practice drills or go on to learn to play AND recognize the popular and common Arabic rhythms. The beat is counted out for you clearly on the screen, and verbally without being annoying. Amir is a fantastic host and instructor, offering friendly and encouraging advice throughout the instruction.I love how easy the format is to follow, you can go all at your own speed and pace, and navigate through the different sections and lessons by a simple click of your remote thanks to the convenient index of the lessons. Repeat a section as many times as you need or jump ahead to something more advanced...you won't be bored! The quality of the screen and sound is excellent, this isn't a shoddy homemade instructional DVD!I'd like to note that Middle Eastern Dancers/Belly Dancers will also find this DVD a great resource even if you don't plan on learning to drum. You can gain a great familiarity with the instrument and to instantly recognize the various Arabic rhythms by sound and name. It will really enhance your dance experience. I've found it invaluable for increasing my understanding of the music and rhythms I dance to. After watching, you just might want to give drumming a try!This DVD brings the beauty of the Dumbek and Arabic rhythms right to the comfort and convenience of your own home. With some time and practice, you'll be comfortably drumming in no time at all, even if you've had no prior experience. Those with percussion experience will appreciate the clear review of fundamentals and while learning some fun and exciting new rhythms. It really couldn't be easier to get started with the Dumbek than with this affordable DVD.