Event Info:

Drummers:
All drums are welcome, but middle-eastern drums are preferred, as we will be drumming middle eastern rhythms. You will be able to quickly pick it up, as most dance rhythms are in 4/4, 2/4, 8/4, 6/8 and 9/8... Just follow the facilitator, listen to the rhythm and play along, and embellish as needed... If you don't have a doumbek, suggested drums would be tambourines, frame drums, small to medium size djembes, etc...

Musicians:
Bring your acoustic instruments... A small amp is suggested also... Most of the playing will be improvisational...

What to play: If you're not familiar with middle eastern scales, a good starting point would be to learn the Maqam Hijaz (scale/mode), also known as the Phrygian Dominant (a.k.a. Spanish)...
Suggested Tuning: Guitarists, tune the 6th string to a D to get a drone tone. Go to the following link for more info on the Phrygian Dominant scale (mode). Middle eastern music alternates between the song melody and improvisational playing... Listen to middle eastern music for ideas for melodies... Players should take turns soloing, and if one is soloing, others should be playing fill-ins, etc.

Dancers:
All are welcome... No bellydance experience necessary... Bring your hip scarves and zills if you have them!