Description: The riqq is a percussion instrument
classified as a "frame drum" and it is in the same family
of instruments as the tambourine. Close relatives of the riqq include
the doira a similar frame drum found in Uzbekistan. Regionally the
riqq goes by many names from Rik to Duff. The riqq is found through
out most of the Middle East including Egypt where my specimen is
made. In Egypt and Iraq the riqq holds a great importance to the
shelghi ensembles. The riqq can be heard through out both Arabic and
Turkish musics. From folk to belly-dance music to Maqam (classical
music) and the riqq recently plays a role in contemporary genres.
Anatomy of the Riqq: The riqq can be made either plane or ornate. Each pair of brass cymbals [about 4cm in diameter] are held together in place by a nail inserted into the frame of the riqq. A hide of goat or fish skin is stretched and glued over the riqq frame. The diameter of the riqq can range from 20 to 25cm. In Iraq the riqq is slightly larger in diameter. The estimated depth of the riqq can be up to 6cm. There are riqq's that have metal bodies that were developed in the 1980s with synthetic plastic heads.