tarabuk

Tarabuk, also written tarabuka or tarabuke and often referred to as darbuka or doumbek in various regions, is a goblet-shaped percussion instrument widely used in the music of the Middle East, North Africa, the Caucasus, and the Balkans. It is typically played with the hands, resting on the lap or a knee, or mounted on a stand. The instrument consists of a goblet-shaped shell made of ceramic, metal, or wood, with a drumhead stretched over the opening. In traditional forms the head is animal skin, though many modern versions use synthetic materials. The pitch and tone are shaped by hand position, edge contact, and the use of the palm or fingers to produce a range of sounds.

Playing technique centers on a few basic strokes. A deep bass note known as the doom or doum is produced from the center of the drum, while higher pitched tones near the rim—tek or ka—provide contrast. Players combine these sounds with other strokes to execute rhythmic patterns and fills, making the tarabuk a versatile timekeeper in ensembles.

Tarabuk is used in a wide range of styles, from traditional folk and classical music to contemporary pop and world music. It holds a central rhythmic role in dances and ceremonies in many regions and is a common feature in percussion groups and educational settings. Although its basic form is consistent, regional variants differ in shell materials, size, and playing techniques. The tarabuk has ancient roots in the Middle East and surrounding areas and remains a portable, expressive instrument in modern music.