The north African culture extending across Egypt, the Maghreb region (north of the Sahara desert), and the northern parts of Mali and Sudan, is a blend of Middle Eastern and Sub-Saharan African musical traditions. Its influence also extends into southern Europe, in particular Spain and Sicily.
This Moroccan wood-and-parchment has a small hole so that the player can stabilize the drum with his thumb. Two gut snares are attached to the inside of the drumhead to create an additional percussive sound when played.
This is an Algerian goblet drum made from brass. A variety of different hand positions can be used to create different tonal effects.
The zummara sattawija is an Egyptian reed cane with two parallel pipes. It is used in rural areas to accompany singing and drum music.
The zurna is a north African double-reed instrument. A wooden case for holding reeds is attached to the instrument, as well as a bone needle to adjust the reed.
"Tabl" is a generic word for "drum" throughout Africa and the Near East. This instrument can rest on a stand or be fitted with a strap and worn slung around the shoulder.
This is a wooden drum from Morocco; it is also called a "daff" or a "riqq" in various other parts of Africa.
This is a clay vase-shaped drum from Tangier.
The arghul is a reed instrument made from cane with a double pipe. One of the pipes produces a drone and the other is used for melody.
The ud is a Middle Eastern/Persian instrument dating back to the seventh century, made of various types of wood including mahogany, spruce, and rosewood.
This "Andalusian ud" was re-introduced to north Africa from Spain after the fifteenth century Reconquista. It is a narrower version of the Arabic ud.
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