The Bendir

The bendir is a wooden-framed frame drum. It is a traditional instrument that is played throughout North Africa, as Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The word bendir, in Turkish, means “a big hand frame drum”.

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The instrument is used  in the special ceremonies of the Sufi. The Sufi tradition is strongly characterized by the use of music, rhythm and dance, to reach particular states of consciousness.

Frame drums are basically a narrow rim over which a skin is stretched on one side, some containing jingles either on the outside or inside of the rim.

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There are historic indications that frame drums may be over eight thousand years old, and they have been used in many contexts, from ritual music to entertainment.

How do I play the instrument?

The drum is played kept vertical by inserting the thumb of the left hand in a special hole in the frame.

Are there any instrument similar to this one?

Dap and def are similar to the bendir.

How long does it take to learn?

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Is there special equipment needed for the instrument?

No special equipment needed to play the bendir.

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Rock with a Star!

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https://youtu.be/tAH7xQrn6us

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