Darbuka Companion

Darbuka Companion is a rhythm reference and learning tool for darbuka players of all levels.

Browse 91 rhythms from Egypt, Turkey, Greece, the Balkans, North Africa, the Gulf, and beyond. Each annotated with audio playback, hand position visuals, and cultural context. Play along at your own pace, explore rhythm variations, and deepen your understanding of percussion traditions from across the world.

WHAT'S INSIDE

- 91 rhythms across Egyptian, Turkish, Greek, Balkan, North African, and Gulf traditions
- Audio playback with real recorded darbuka sounds
- Hand position visuals for every stroke — see exactly how to play along
- Sequencer notation — read the rhythm at a glance
- Rhythm variations — Basic, Filled, Classical and more
- Cultural context and origins for every rhythm
- Adjustable tempo — Slow, Normal, and Fast presets per rhythm
- Learn the Basics — the instrument, the sounds, the notation explained

THE FULL ATLAS

Unlock the complete collection with a one-time purchase. No subscriptions, no recurring charges. Every rhythm, forever.

Four rhythms are free to explore before you buy:
- Maqsum — the heartbeat of Egyptian music
- Baladi — earthy, grounded, essential
- Malfuf — fast and driving, used in processions
- Karsilama — a lively 9/8 Turkish rhythm

ABOUT THIS APP

I play the darbuka, and I couldn't find a rhythm reference that felt good to use while actually playing, something you could glance at mid-session, not a PDF or a video.

So I built one. The rhythms, sounds, and hand positions are all drawn from real playing. Every tempo marking has been checked against how these rhythms actually feel.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your knowledge of world percussion traditions, Darbuka Companion is built to be open on your phone while you play.