Learn Darbuka Step-by-Step From Anywhere in the World
Whether you're picking up a darbuka for the first time or refining advanced techniques, learn darbuka online through structured courses, live training, and expert instruction from world-renowned percussionist Raquy Danziger
Choose Your Darbuka Path
Darbuka Basics
Beginner Darbuka Course
Master the essential strokes, rhythms, and techniques needed to build a strong foundation.
Darbuka Method
Intermediate Darbuka Training
Develop speed, control, dexterity, rolls and fancy finger techniques.
Darbuka Training Club
Live Online Darbuka Community
Weekly live training sessions, fun challenges, and a worldwide community of darbuka players.
Hi, I'm Raquy.
Playing the darbuka is the love of my life. For more than twenty years, I've dedicated myself to every aspect of this remarkable instrument: performing, teaching, composing, and helping students around the world discover its beauty and power.
My journey has taken me from traditional Middle Eastern ensembles to Istanbul, where I studied with Turkish drumming masters and immersed myself in the revolutionary split-hand technique.
Today, students from around the world learn through my online courses, private coaching, workshops, and the Darbuka Training Club, forming a global community of dedicated darbuka players.
I've spent years developing a clear, structured teaching system designed to help students progress from their very first strokes to advanced performance techniques.
Through my online darbuka school, I've helped students from around the world develop strong technique, musicality, and confidence on this unique Middle Eastern percussion instrument.
Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your skills, I'm excited to be part of your darbuka journey.
My Experience Training in Istanbul
Why Students Learn With Me
✅ A clear path from beginner to advanced
Start with the fundamentals and progress through a structured learning journey.
✅ Learn at your own pace
Access your lessons anytime, from anywhere in the world.
✅ Build real technique and musicality
Develop speed, control, precision, and confidence.
✅ Over 20 years of teaching and performance experience
Learn from a lifetime devoted to the darbuka.
✅ Students from around the world
Join a global community of dedicated darbuka players.
✅ Weekly live training opportunities
Stay motivated through challenges, live sessions, and ongoing support.
Upcoming Darbuka Intensives w Raquy
Feb 19- 21, 2007 Nicosia, Cyprus
March 11 - 14, 2007 Istanbul
April 24-25, 2007 Nasheville, TN
Summer 2027 - Goshen, NY
More 2027 dates coming soon.
Sign up for Newsletter to get notified
What Students are Saying
Being part of Raquy’s Darbuka Training club has been life-changing for me. I've seen a massive improvement in my Darbuka playing over the past year, and as an added bonus I've met some amazing people. As long as the club is active, I'll definitely keep signing up.
— Derek Hansen, FLI've been Raquy's on line school student for more than two years and I've been learning lots of moves and combinations. There's heaps of courses and they are very easy to follow. I've been improving my technique and my knowledge a lot.
— Harun Derbeke, BelgiumDarbuka School is a one-of-a-kind online platform to learn darbuka at one’s own time and place. I found the daily practices and the courses very helpful. It is for the serious and passionate learner who wants to get better at drumming fast - as fast and often as one can practice all the generous wisdom straight from the masters. What I love about it is that it has its own notation system to break down enigmatic playing. It enables me to hit a huge variety of sounds at great speed from a darbuka. Arming me with technique, rhythm, sound advise and inspiration, i find it totally on a class of its own.
— Maria TuazonFAQ
Can I learn darbuka online?
Yes. Thousands of students around the world have learned darbuka through online courses, live training sessions, coaching, and workshops. You can learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world.
Do I need any drumming experience to start learning darbuka?
No. Many students begin with no prior musical experience at all. The Darbuka Basics course starts from the fundamentals and guides you step-by-step through the essential strokes, rhythms, and techniques.
What's the difference between a darbuka, dumbek, and doumbek?
They're different names for the same goblet-shaped drum. "Darbuka" is the most common term in the Middle East, while "dumbek" and "doumbek" are often used in Europe and North America. The playing techniques and rhythms are largely the same.
Which course should I start with?
If you're new to the instrument, start with Darbuka Basics. More experienced players can continue with the Darbuka Method, join the Training Club, or explore private coaching and intensive workshops.
What style of darbuka do you teach?
My teaching combines traditional Middle Eastern drumming with modern technique development, including the split-hand techniques I studied in Istanbul. Students learn rhythm, technique, musicality, improvisation, and performance skills.
Do I need a specific type of drum?
The Arabic-style darbuka with the rounded rim is generally the most suitable for the techniques taught in my courses. Click here to learn more about choosing the right darbuka.
For more info about the Darbuka, check out Raquy’s Darbuka Recources Page
Treat Yourself to a Raquy Signature Darbuka!
This is the darbuka that Raquy herself developed alongside the company who produces them for her in Egypt. For decades, she has played this drum in all her recordings and concerts. Its slightly smaller than the standard one and has a high crisp pitch great for soloing, and easy to carry.
This drum comes with an extra head featuring Raquy’s design, a padded case, and Rami will get it in tune for you before he sends it out.
Shipping available to USA and internationally.
This gorgeous hand crafted ceramic darbuka with natural skin has a magical voice - it just sings! Designed by Raquy and made by Heather McQueen, this is a favorite of many drummers.
Material: earthenware ceramic with glaze, wheel-thrown
Finished with: natural cowskin rawhide drum head
Dimensions: approximately 19"h x 12" diameter (across the top of the drum); weight 10lbs.
Raquy’s students from around the world playing her Darbuka Anthem