Other · Various regions

Bendir (Frame Drum)

Large circular frame drum with a goatskin head and snare strings across the back. The most common percussion instrument in Moroccan traditional music.

History & Cultural Context

The bendir is central to Amazigh, Gnawa, and Sufi musical traditions across Morocco. Its buzzing snare sound is instantly recognizable. Used in religious ceremonies, festivals, and daily music. Frame drums like the bendir are among the oldest instruments in North Africa.

Materials

Wooden frameBent wood circle, traditionally walnut or beech
Goatskin headNatural goatskin stretched over the frame
Gut or nylon snare stringsStrings stretched across the interior for buzzing effect

Production Techniques

Steam bendingTraditional
Wood strip steamed and bent into a circle
Skin stretching and lacingTraditional
Wet goatskin stretched over frame and laced to dry taut

Production Notes

Circular wooden frame bent from a single strip of wood. Goatskin stretched and laced over the frame when wet, then dried taut. Gut or nylon snare strings attached across the interior. Diameter: 35–50cm.

Quality Indicators

Quality

Clear, resonant tone when struckEven skin tension across the head

Red Flags

Synthetic drum head

Price Ranges

Budget50 – 150 MAD(~$5 – $15)

Small (35cm), tourist-grade, may have synthetic head

Mid-range150 – 400 MAD(~$15 – $40)

Standard size (40–45cm), genuine goatskin, playable

Premium400 – 800 MAD(~$40 – $80)

Large (50cm), exceptional skin, professional quality, tunable