DVD: Basic Rhythms for Arabic Drum

Uncle Mafufo's classic doumbek video is now on DVD. The rhythmic modes are presented in his same easy-to-grasp language, patient instruction, close-up visual detail, and illustrative solos. The rhythms are printed on the back cover for an easy list to refer to. The DVD is full of information and is 59 minutes long. At the end of the DVD we have added a bonus performance to enjoy. Beginning to Intermediate.
The rhythms are: Ayoob, Karachi, Malfoof, Saudi (Khaligi), Maksoom, Sahidi, Beledi, Wahed Tawila (Wahida), Vals, Zebula (Darig), Masmoodi Kabir, Chiftitelli, Karsilama, and the Gypsy rhythm Romany 9 (Sulukule).

The DVD and Essential Rhythms CD are wonderful. It is my first real exposure to Middle Eastern percussion...the CD's are giving me a geat deal to work with...my grandmother's family is from Lebanon used to play...so it is very exciting to begin that tradition again.
Thanks again
Michael B. from Danbury, Conn.

Your instruction has been invaluable and was easy to understand due to your calm and patient presentation. Just wanted to write and express my gratitude for your guidance. Thank you.
John W. from Chico, Ca.

DVD: Riqs & Defs

This DVD has the same practical approach to Frame Drums as the Doumbek version. The clear, concise lessons are taught in Armando's own distinctive style, relaxed and friendly, and are meant to be easily absorbed and understood. Using the drum language of Dun, tec and ca, Mafufo takes the student through each rhythm and technique with carefully illustrative playing. Riq (the Egyptian tambourine) and Def (the large frame drum) are taught and demonstrated in separate segments. The rhythm patterns Ayoob, Malfoof, Khaligi, Vals, Maksoom, Beledi, Sahidi and Darig are printed on the back cover.
Running time is 48 minutes.

...the Riq DVD and it is amazing.... I just went ahead and ordered the Arabic DVD also. Thank you for your excellent products. Peace.
Eric A. Mesa, AZ.

CD: 25 Essential Rhythms
for Middle Eastern Drumming
SPECIAL PRICE FOR A LIMITED TIME: $15.95  BUY ONLINE

Armando's thirty plus years of playing Middle Eastern folk rhythms on the doumbek has resulted in this CD. He considers these 25 rhythms essential for the dancer or drummer to know. There is material here beyond the basics for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge or for players who would like to add to their repertoire of rhythms and variations. Armando has written the modes in Dun, Tec, and Ca syllables (D, T, C) and we've printed them on the insert for easy reference.

THE RHYTHMS:
2 beat: Ayoob, Turkish; Karachi, Pakistani; Malfoof, Arabic; Saudi or Khaligi, Arabic; Felahin, Egyptian.

3 beat: Darag or Vals, Arabic; Tsamiko, Greek.

4 beat: Maksoom, Arabic; Saidi, Egyptian; Beledi, Arabic; Wahed Tawila (Wahida), Arabic; Bolero,Cuban; Nawari, Lebanese.

5 beat: Turkish Five.

6 beat: Shish Hasht, Persian; Zebula, African; Shabia, North African.

7 beat: Kalamatiano, Greek; Laz, Turkish or Bulgarian.

8 beat: Masmoodi Kabir, Arabic; Chiftitelli, Turkish.

9 beat: Karsilama, Turkish; Zeibek, Turkish.

10 beat: Armenian Ten or Curcuna, Armenian; Samai, Arabic.

CD: Zills and Drums
Thrilling, Chilling, Zilling CD

Uncle Mafufo presents the zills as an important part of the Bellydancer's percussion knowledge: which rhythm to play with what, plus variations. Accompanied by tabla, defs, naqara, hand claps, and tabl beledi, Armando uses zills to demonstrate the rhythms.

"I believe any percussion player could benefit from this CD....KAJIRA, Zaghareet, March/April 1999.