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Doumbek, Doumbec, Dumbeg, Derbeki,
Darbouka & Tabla
(Goblet drum synonymous names used by various cultures)
It is generally assumed the doumbek originated in the middle east, but not so. It actually did not arrive there until after the time of Christ. There were no pictures on the Pharonic walls and they pictured everything!
The first doumbek shell artifacts were carbon dated back to 4,000 BC and were found in of all places, Bohemia. There was a Celtic tribe called the Boiis that moved south instead of west like the other tribes. It appears they developed the doumbek there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which type of drumhead is best for me?
The synthetic heads produce clear and crisp sounds in a wide variety of pitches. This "fishtone" synthetic head is also stronger than a natural skin. With this head, you don't have to worry about heat and humidity affecting the drum as with the natural animal skin heads. The "fishtone" synthetic head is made to sound similar to the natural fishskin heads, which are rarely used since they are so delicate and weather sensitive.
Some people prefer the popular natural goatskin heads, which provide lower, more subtle tones. Orange Slice Inc. uses goatskin heads on bodhrans, tambourines, frame drums, some doumbeks, and African style drums, such as the djembe and ashiko.
Calfskin is more translucent than goatskin. It produces higher tones and sharper pitches. Any drumhead that is beat with a mallet is usually calfskin, since it tends to be stronger than goatskin. Calfskin is usually used on zarbs, bongos, and banjos.
What can I do if my natural skin drum head is affected by heat and humidity?
If the head is loosened due to humidity, one can tighten the head with a damp cloth placed on the head for about 15 minutes. Then let the head dry naturally. It is important to make sure water does not get into the glue joint. If the drum is a tabla, water must not get on the gaab (center black dot). Also, applying heat from a hair dryer will tighten the head.
What type of fish is the fishskin head made of?
Nile River Sturgeon is used because it tends to be the strongest available. Remember that fishskin heads are delicate. Only a few of the Nile River sturgeon are larger than 12", which is why these skins are more expensive.
Can I rehead my own drum?
Animal skin heads can usually be put on drums with wood glue and masking tape. Click here for instructions for drum head replacement. However, if you have a ceramic drum with a synthetic head, Orange Slice Inc. will rehead the drum for you using a proprietary process. Simply write us for instructions. (this can be done with natural skin heads also) Orange Slice Inc. does not guarantee to be able to put a head on any drum.
What is the difference in sound between a doumbek and a zarb?
A zarb is mellower and more resonate than a doumbek. The zarb produces a lower "tec".
What is a "doum" and what is a "tec"?
"Doum" is the term used to refer to stroking the center of the drumhead, creating a lower note. "Tec" is the term drummers use when referring to hitting the drum edge, which creates a higher and sharper note.
What is the difference between the wide neck doumbek versus the narrow neck?
The wide neck doumbek has shorter resonance and a higher "doum". The flare on the narrow neck drum adds to the resonance resulting in a deeper "doum".
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Orange Slice Inc.
10104 Hallberg Lane
RALEIGH, NC 27614
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