Music

Donavon Lerman – Arabic & North African Percussionist
Doumbek / Darbouka · Frame Drum · North African Rhythms · Dancer Accompaniment

Raised between Kentucky and Southern California, Donavon Lerman was not born into the culture of North African percussion, yet it has become his deep and enduring passion. With dedication and reverence, he has immersed himself in the artform, becoming one of the few American-born musicians in Southern California to specialize in traditional Arabic drumming styles.

Donavon’s journey began under the guidance of Rico Orel, who introduced him to the dumbek (also called darbuka)—a goblet-shaped drum typically made from ceramic with a goatskin or fishskin head. He went on to study with Lebanese master Souhail Kaspar, whose conservatory-trained precision instilled in Donavon a strong technical foundation and deep respect for the traditions of the instrument. Further lessons with Syrian drummer Faisal Zedan expanded Donavon’s ability to translate technique into musical expression—learning, in his teacher’s words, “how to make words, sentences, and poetry.”

His studies also led him to train and perform with acclaimed percussionists Issam Houshan, and Gomal Gomma. Each further refining his artistry and exposing him to new dimensions of Arabic rhythm and performance.

Donavon has performed with several prestigious ensembles, including the UCLA Near East Ensemble and the Kan Zeman Ensemble. With the Mesto Ensemble, he traveled to Egypt to perform at the Cairo and Alexandria Opera Houses as part of the 17th Annual Arabic Music Festival. He also appeared with Jillina’s Bellydance Evolution for the Los Angeles performances of their acclaimed “Alice in Wonderland” tour.

For 17 years, Donavon ran Studio Iqaat, a dedicated Middle Eastern music and dance studio based in Eagle Rock, California. There, he cultivated a thriving community of dancers and musicians, hosting workshops, classes, and performances that celebrated the rich rhythmic traditions of the Middle East.

Donavon’s collaboration with dancers has become a vital part of his expression. He likens it to the Indian classical tradition, where every note is reflected in a dancer’s movement. This dialogue between sound and motion, rhythm and embodiment, is central to his practice. “Sometimes I have these glimmers,” he says, “where I am completely inside the music. I know exactly where the next note will be and I play something instinctively that I couldn’t play before. That’s an incredible experience.”

Publicity Photos: https://goo.gl/photos/4LfFRrfkDz1xwyCk9

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@iqaat

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StudioIqaat

Strudel Rhythm Player: Strudel Rhythm Player

Arabic / North African Percussion & Doumbek Drum Classes

Learn the language of rhythm. Play with confidence, feel, and joy.

These percussion classes offer live, online instruction in doumbek (darbuka), riqq, zills, and tar for beginners, dancers, and experienced musicians. Based in Los Angeles, California, these drumming classes meet weekly on Tuesday evenings (Pacific Time) and welcome students locally and worldwide.

Whether you are brand new to drumming, a dancer wanting a deeper relationship to rhythm, or a seasoned percussionist refining technique and musicality, these online drum lessons are designed to be clear, embodied, and musically rich.

Online Percussion Classes – Tuesday Evenings — ONLINE — (Pacific Time)

Classes are live, interactive, and ongoing, so you can join at any time. Instruction balances technique, rhythm, and musical expression, with space for questions and individual attention.

Pricing

• Drop-in class: $25
• 4-class package: $20 per class
• Sliding Scale and Donation Options Available after the first class. Contact me if your need other arraignments.

Absolute beginners:
If you are completely new to drumming, I recommend either a private lesson (with me, another teacher, or an advanced student) to go over fundamentals. This helps you feel grounded and confident in the group setting.

Learn Doumbek, Riqq, Zills & Tar

These percussion classes focus on the most commonly used instruments in North African & Middle Eastern music and dance:

• Doumbek / Darbuka – foundational rhythms, tone production, and groove
• Riqq – finger technique, rolls, and rhythmic precision
• Zills – coordination, phrasing, and musical accompaniment for dance
• Tar – frame drum technique and texture

What You’ll Learn

Students develop both technical skill and musical understanding, including:

• Core Arabic and North African drum rhythms
• Variations and ornamentation on standard rhythms
• Solo structure and rhythmic phrasing
• How to play for dancers vs. with recorded or live music
• Arabic Classical, Arabic Pop, and Turkish playing styles
• Technique, tone, and touch
• Exercises for flexibility, dexterity, and speed
• Timing, feel, and rhythmic confidence

These classes support musicians and dancers alike in building a strong rhythmic foundation.

Drum Classes for Beginners, Dancers & Musicians

These classes are intentionally mixed-level. Beginners receive clear structure and guidance, while experienced players are challenged to refine nuance, musicality, and expression. Dancers are especially welcome and supported in learning how rhythm functions in live accompaniment.

Group & In-Person Options (Los Angeles Area)

Have a group of 5 or more people? In-person percussion classes in Los Angeles can be arranged.

Also available:

• Private drum lessons
• Coaching
• Practice sessions for percussion & dance
• Performances
• Workshops

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior drumming experience?
No. These percussion classes are beginner friendly. Absolute beginners may want a short private session or early arrival to learn the basics before joining the group.

What drum do I need for class?
A doumbek (darbuka) is ideal, but you can begin with what you have. I’m happy to offer guidance on instruments.

Are these classes live or recorded?
Classes are live and interactive. This allows for real-time feedback, questions, and musical connection.

Can dancers take these drum classes?
Yes. Many students are dancers learning rhythm, phrasing, and how drummers support movement.

What time zone are classes in?
Classes are held on Tuesday evenings, Pacific Time.

Are these classes only for Los Angeles students?
No. While based in Los Angeles, these online drum lessons welcome students worldwide.

Ready to Begin?

If rhythm is calling, follow it. Reach out to ask questions, book a class, or explore private lessons.

Donavon
🌐 www.donavonlerman.com
📧 donavon.lerman@gmail.com
📱 @iqaat (IG • FB)
📞 818-276-5895