October 3-4, 2026: Darbuka Workshop & Concert with Raquy Danziger

Concert Only: Saturday, October 3, 2026

Ideal for folks intrigued by the sound of middle eastern music with a desire to experience the excitement of Raquy’s performance. During this intimate one-hour concert, Raquy will show off her fabulous musicianship. In addition to playing darbuka, she will perform on the Kemenche, a stringed instrument from Central Asia. Plan to arrive a few minutes early for a 7:30pm concert start time.

Saturday-Only Workshop, Darbuka Fundamentals & Concert: This Saturday-only option will begin at noon with a two-hour class focused on technique, gauged to the level of the participants who come. There will then be a 30 minute break with a snack. Next there will be another two-hour session from 3 to 5 pm focused on creating different rhythms, again gauged to the level of participants. At 6 pm our host Becky Ashenden will offer a delicious and wholesome vegetarian meal in the farm’s lovely barn. At 7:30 there will be a one-hour concert during which Raquy will show off her fabulous musicianship. In addition to playing darbuka, she will perform on the Kemenche, a stringed instrument from Central Asia.

Sunday-Only Workshop, Darbuka Open Level: The Sunday-only option includes two workshop sessions: the first from 9:30-11:30, the second from 1-3 pm. A delicious lunch will be served in between by our host, Becky Ashenden. These sessions are for more experienced players, and their content will depend on the needs of the participants. They will feature individual feedback, learning a drum composition, and accompanying Raquy as she plays Kemenche.

Full Weekend Workshop & Concert: The full weekend option will include both the Saturday and Sunday workshops and meals, we well as the Saturday evening concert. For those traveling from out of town and registering for the full weekend, we do have a limited number of lodging options available. 

Workshops are limited to 20 participants.

About Raquy Danziger

Raquy Danziger is an internationally acclaimed musician, artist, teacher and composer. Considered to be one of the foremost experts and virtuosos on the oriental goblet drum known as the darbuka, Raquy is renowned for her electrifying performances. Through her concerts, compositions, and teaching methodology, Raquy has made a significant contribution toward elevating the darbuka from a humble folk drum to a shining solo instrument fit for a concert hall. Through her mission to introduce the darbuka to people all over the world, Raquy has inspired a new generation of players.

In addition to drumming, Raquy plays the mystical twelve-string King Kemenche Tarhu, and is a disciple of the Azeri kemenche master Imamyar Hasanov and Arslan Hazretti.