Learn Drumming with Hala and Derek

“Step into the rhythmic heartbeat of the Middle East. These immersive drumming classes offer students an inspiring journey through the traditional percussion styles that shape Arabic and Middle Eastern music.”

Course Highlights

Learn from two renowned percussionists with deep roots in Middle Eastern drumming and performance
Hands-on instruction in a range of traditional drums including darbuka, riq, frame drum, and more
Suitable for beginners and intermediate players seeking to build technique and rhythm mastery
Emphasis on rhythmic confidence, ensemble playing, and cultural expression

What You'll Learn

Proper hand positions, striking techniques, and posture for each instrument
Foundational rhythms such as Maqsoum, Saidi, Malfuf, and more
Rhythmic improvisation and listening skills
Ensemble playing, call and response, and group coordination
The cultural and historical significance of Arabic percussion in classical and folk traditions

Class Details

Duration: 60-minute sessions
Location: Auburn Galipolli Mosque
Format: Group and private classes available
Instruments: Students may bring their own drum or use one provided during class (limited supply)
Skill Levels: Beginner to Intermediate

Instructor:

Hala Sammak

Hala Sammak is a gifted percussionist and educator, recently arrived from Gaza, Palestine, where she studied at the Conservatory of Music, majoring in rhythm and drumming. Her journey as an artist is one of resilience, passion, and cultural preservation, carrying the heartbeat of her homeland through every beat of the drum.

Trained in traditional Arabic rhythms and instruments—including darbuka, riq, and frame drum—Hala brings a deep authenticity to her teaching. Her classes weave together technical skill, cultural storytelling, and a profound sense of community.

Having lived through the recent war in Gaza, Hala brings not only musical knowledge but a healing presence. She believes in rhythm as a universal language that can restore, empower, and connect. Her teaching is both uplifting and rooted in the rich traditions of Palestinian and broader Middle Eastern music.

Join Hala to experience the power of drumming—not just as music, but as a way of remembering, healing, and celebrating life.

Teacher’s Assistant:

Tareq Halawa

Tareq Halawa is a dedicated Middle Eastern percussionist and performer based in Sydney. As the drummer for the local Islamic nasheed group Three Rivers Ensemble, Tareq brings heartfelt rhythm and spiritual depth to every performance, blending tradition with community expression.

With a strong foundation in Arabic drumming—including darbuka, riq, and frame drum—Tareq has developed a teaching style that is both approachable and rooted in authentic technique. His classes focus on rhythm as a form of connection, offering students a space to build skill, confidence, and musical awareness.

Passionate about nurturing local talent, Tareq brings warmth, patience, and enthusiasm to each lesson. Whether you're picking up a drum for the first time or looking to deepen your rhythmic knowledge, his guidance will help you grow as both a musician and a listener.