Percussion

Riq

The riq is a Middle Eastern tambourine with a single head and metal jingles around the frame. It's central to Arabic classical music and is often used to provide rhythmic accompaniment in ensembles. The instrument produces a bright, jingling sound that's essential to Middle Eastern musical traditions.

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Instrument Image

Overview

The riq is a Middle Eastern tambourine with a single head and metal jingles around the frame. It's central to Arabic classical music and is often used to provide rhythmic accompaniment in ensembles. The instrument produces a bright, jingling sound that's essential to Middle Eastern musical traditions.

Cultural Context

The riq is central to Arabic classical music and represents the rhythmic foundation of Middle Eastern musical traditions.

Famous Players

Marcel Khalife
Naseer Shamma
Hassan Erraji
Farid al-Atrash

Fun Fact

The riq is often called the 'Middle Eastern tambourine' and is one of the most important instruments in Arabic classical music, often used to provide rhythmic accompaniment in ensembles.

Quick Facts

Origin

Middle East

Era

The riq is central to Arabic classical music and represents the rhythmic foundation of Middle Eastern musical traditions.

Difficulty

Intermediate

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