Other · Various regions

Darbuka / Goblet Drum

Goblet-shaped hand drum with a ceramic or metal body and a synthetic or goatskin head. Smaller and more portable than the bendir.

History & Cultural Context

The darbuka (also doumbek or tabla) is widespread across North Africa and the Middle East. In Morocco, it accompanies popular music, weddings, and street performances. Its higher-pitched tone complements the bendir's deeper sound.

Materials

Ceramic or metal bodyGoblet-shaped shell providing resonance
Goatskin or synthetic headDrum membrane

Production Techniques

Ceramic throwing (for clay versions)Traditional
Body shaped on a potter's wheel

Production Notes

Ceramic body thrown on a wheel, or aluminum body machine-formed. Head is goatskin (traditional) or synthetic plastic (modern). Heads are tensioned with ropes, screws, or glue. Ceramic versions are more traditional but fragile.

Quality Indicators

Quality

Clear doum (bass) and tek (treble) tonesTunable head mechanism

Price Ranges

Budget40 – 120 MAD(~$4 – $12)

Small souvenir, painted ceramic, synthetic head

Mid-range120 – 400 MAD(~$12 – $40)

Standard size, goatskin head, good tone

Premium400 – 1000 MAD(~$40 – $100)

Professional quality, tunable, excellent resonance