Yshai Afterman Percussion School

Middle Eastern Percussion,
taught with depth.

Group lessons and private tuition in Darbuka, Lapstyle Frame Drum, Riqq, and Upright Frame Drum — built on a complete pedagogical system developed over decades. There is no equivalent for these instruments online.

1,700+ Live group lessons taught since 2021
4 Instruments — Darbuka, Frame Drum, Riqq & Upright
2011 Teaching online since — one of the longest-running in the field
Yshai Afterman
About Yshai

A method built on thousands of hours of practice and search

Inspired by my teachers and by years of deep practice, I spent a long time developing a method that leaves nothing out — technique, musical understanding, rhythmic phrasing, independence, and spirit. It is the method I wish I had when I was starting out.

Inspired by my teachers and by years of practice, I developed a step-by-step method that covers everything a student needs: technique, musical understanding, rhythmic phrasing, coordination — and most importantly, spirit.

"If you have a dream to play these instruments and are willing to put in the work — reach out and let's make it happen."
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Group Lessons

Four instruments, one rigorous method

Darbuka

Darbuka

The most widely played Middle Eastern goblet drum. Classes focus on technique, independence, and the rhythmic vocabulary of Arabic and Turkish music traditions.

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Lap Style Frame Drum

Lapstyle Frame Drum

A meditative, nuanced instrument played in the lap. Classes explore the rich tradition of frame drumming with an emphasis on tone, dynamics, and musicality.

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Riqq

Riqq

The classical tambourine of Arabic music — deceptively complex. Classes develop the precision, independence, and sensitivity this delicate instrument demands.

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Upright Frame Drum

Upright Frame Drum

Played standing, this powerful instrument bridges tradition and modern expression. Classes cover technique, posture, and an evolving musical vocabulary.

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New groups open once a year per instrument. Register your interest →

The Teaching

Most online percussion teaching is built around demonstrations and explanations. What you'll find here is something different: a complete pedagogical system, developed over years, designed to take students through a real musical journey — from foundations to advanced repertoire, technique, and improvisation.

Students who come having studied with other programs often describe the same experience: that they are, in a real sense, starting again. Not because they haven't worked hard — but because the depth, structure, and musical thinking here are unlike anything else available for these instruments online.

April 2026

Upcoming Events

Masterclasses, open mics, and community gatherings — open to students and newcomers alike.

Pedram Khavarzamini

April 13  ·  Online · Zoom

Pedram Khavarzamini Masterclass

A rare online masterclass with one of the world's finest tombak players. Live Q&A included. 85 ₪.

Reserve your spot
Community Open Mic

April 11  ·  Saturday · 8:00 PM

Community Open Mic

A monthly gathering for the percussion community — come to perform, share, or simply enjoy the music.

Register now
Yshai Afterman Free Masterclass

April 2026  ·  Date TBA

Free Masterclass with Yshai

An open masterclass with Yshai — free for all. A chance to experience the teaching before committing to a group.

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2025–26 Masterclass Series

World-class masters,
exclusively for our students

As part of an ongoing effort to inspire and motivate his students, Yshai brings the world's top percussion masters for exclusive masterclasses — available to all group and private students.

What Students Say
"I've been playing drum-set professionally since 1981. I attended Berklee College of Music and learned from the best teachers around. I tell you this not for an ego-trip but to let you know that my thoughts on Yshai's teaching are based on many years of practice and playing. When I decided to deepen my Middle Eastern percussion — by far, Yshai is the best teacher I have ever had."
Giovanni Lo Cascio — Italy Professional percussionist · 40+ years · Berklee College of Music
"What sets Yshai apart is his ability to show you what is possible when you don't believe it yourself… He will teach you to find your own voice, which is a priceless thing."
James Allen — USA Professional musician · 35 years · Frame Drum
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