Playing the Derbakeh, Biskra

Derbakeh is the Arabic word for an hour-glass shaped drum with lamb skin at one side, and an open end at the other side. The body of the derbakeh is constructed of either clay or metal, and is played with the palms and fingers while on the lap or between the knees of the musician. The derbakeh's origins can be traced back to ancient Armenia, where it was called the doumbeg and where some believe it to have been invented before the chair. However, its simple construction and and crisp resonance made it quickly appealling to all of the Middle East and Northern Africa.