One of the most beloved and talented ME musicians and percussionists to grace this planet has passed. Hossam Ramzy has been the soundtrack to every modern bellydancer’s life; his rhythms, the heartbeat of a community of artists, and the musical … Read More
The latest from Deep Roots Dance and student troupe Nomaditude at the final Cues & Tattoos, April 2018. Don’t miss our performances and workshops at World Rhythm Festival, Saturday and Sunday, April 28th and 29th at the Seattle Center Armory, … Read More
We’re finishing up our series of finger cymbals tonight, and gearing up for Jane Hall to join us to teach drumming starting next week at Studio Deep Roots. So as inspiration, I thought I would share this piece with Susu … Read More
Practicing your finger cymbals while in dance posture is important, as the habits your form while practicing are what will stick. Remember the addage: “Practice how you perform!” Strong posture with structured/intentional arm positioning, other fingers gracefully extended and not … Read More
Sounds Being musical instruments, finger cymbals can be played to produce different qualities of sound. The common sounds we use in our classes at Deep Roots are: Ring – a normal strike and release, producing a bell-like tone Clack – … Read More
Finger Cymbals, also known as “zills” in Turkish, are disks of metal worn two on each hand and played by bellydancers. Also known by their Arabic term sajat/sagat, they are not just props, but percussion instruments which add exciting textures … Read More
One of Suhaila Salimpour’s proteges, a famous member of Bal Anat, Aida has been an inspiration to thousands of dancers over the years. She continues to teach workshops, and is generous and enthusiastic in sharing her knowledge online as well. … Read More
You want some more ultra-inspiring finger cymbal playing? Prepare to have your mind blown. 1:10 particularly makes me just go Mmmmmmm Mmmmmmmmm! But that is just a warm up for what comes later… watch the whole thing, my friends.
Just in time for Finger Cymbals week! A video from Afsana helping you get your triples up to snuff, as well as an ingenious way to get you to start working with the “1” in your music! Reminds me of … Read More
You have seen me post my effusive praises for Karim Nagi on this blog before. And this surely won’t be the last time. Watch him make pure magic from simple disks of metal. Yeah, and then he also dances and … Read More