Students from Japan to Brazil, Ireland to Kazakhstan, Singapore to Canada — all part of the same percussion family.
Yshai is an amazing artist and teacher! He's sharing so much during each lesson; it has been such an inspirational journey since we started almost 2 years ago the riqq group! Highly recommended!!
Yshai is an outstanding musician and an amazing teacher! His teaching methods are gradual, logical and easy to follow! Studying with him has changed my outlook on drumming and dramatically improved my technique!
Studying frame drum lapstyle with Yshai Afterman has been a deeply enriching experience. His meticulous approach, his commitment to the art form, and deep musical insight have significantly expanded my skills — even after many years of drumming. Yshai combines the rare qualities of a world-class musician and an exceptional teacher. He is fully present with his students, offering sharp observations and feedback that is truly invaluable.
As a beginner of darbuka and as an experienced conga player looking to deepen my understanding of percussion, I joined the Darbuka Group last year. Yshai creates a supportive, joyful, and deeply enriching learning environment. His unique blend of traditional technique, cultural context, and personal warmth makes every lesson an exciting journey into the heart of music. Studying with Yshai has not only improved my musical skills, but also connected me more deeply to the spirit and history of Oriental music. Highly, highly recommended!
Yshai's classes are fantastic. I really look forward to and enjoy every class! He teaches just like he plays — with depth, precision and artistry. The curriculum is extremely well-structured, with each class building elegantly on previous classes in so many areas — including technique, independence, and compositions of increasing complexity. One of my favorite aspects of the training is the composition exercises. I'm also impressed by the other students, many of whom are professional musicians — certainly a testament to Yshai's quality as a teacher.
So far, I've taken four group lessons and four private lessons, working with a total of eight musicians. Among all of them, Yshai has been the best musician and teacher I've had. He explains technique, composition, and everything else in a very clear and integrated way. Even though my English is not very good and I struggle to ask questions the way I want, this has been my most productive and enjoyable course.
Yshai's teaching method has helped me to improve my technique and gain a deeper understanding of how to play the instrument more freely. The lessons have provided me with loads of ideas for practicing in a structured way, with a multitude of useful drills and rhythmic exercises. The lessons are exactly what I was looking for. Highly recommended.
Studying with Yshai Afterman, in his lap-style frame drum group, has been a transformative experience. As an educator, Yshai is in a class of his own. He teaches with a rare combination of precision, patience, and deep musicality. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced percussionist, Yshai's approach to rhythm is invaluable. I can honestly say I've never encountered a more thoughtful or effective approach to rhythmic fundamentals. Yshai is a master teacher and a true artist of the drum.
I've finally found a course that offers a structured and dedicated approach to learning the Darbuka. The teacher shares his knowledge in an authentic and passionate way, which makes a real difference. What I appreciate most is that the course goes beyond just technique or rhythms — Yshai also shares his personal experiences, which adds a deeper dimension to the learning process. This course has truly made a lasting impact on my musical journey.
Yshai is a great teacher, I'm so grateful having studied with him. He is methodical and well organised, the class structure helps you learn easily with, at each lesson, new materials, technique, solos, compositions, independence exercises… Classes start and finish exactly at the precise time. He is exacting, analytical and helps each one of the group with personal advice.
Little did I know a video I saw on Instagram would start me on the journey of learning frame drum, and continuing in my 3rd year now. Yshai is an amazing teacher; the methodology he designed guarantees you a solid foundation while constantly improving. I am lucky to find Yshai to be my teacher, and grateful for the relationship we have.
I enjoy a lot learning the frame drum with Yshai. What stands out most is his deep love and genuine connection to the drum — it's something you can feel, and it's truly inspiring. He has developed a clear and thoughtful system for teaching, which makes the learning process easier and accessible. You don't just learn grooves and patterns, but also the logic and musicality behind them. This is the best gift I've given myself this year.
As a teacher, I cannot imagine a more impactful framework for learning an instrument. Yshai manages to provide all of his students with a vast quantity of information with an undeniable clarity. He is truly an invaluable resource!
I am writing this to anyone who is debating whether or not to study with Yshai. I have been studying with him for almost 4 years now and I feel so lucky for the day I started! Beyond the fact that he is an amazing person and a gifted musician, he is truly the best teacher I have ever had, and I have been studying music my entire adult life so I have had many teachers along the way. Anyone who starts will discover how organized and simple everything is. Yshai takes you step by step from the basics to the highest level. Thank me later.
Studying with Yshai has been the turning point in my music career! He has opened up my spirit and understanding to a whole new dimension in music and rhythms. His love and dedication for music and teaching have always inspired me. Yshai is a rare combination of a master percussionist and a great teacher, which is really hard to find. I highly recommend Yshai's lessons!
Yshai is one of the most dedicated teachers that I have ever had. I started studying the riqq as a beginner in 2022 and Yshai has offered me a clear, step-by-step pathway to improve my skills. His teaching methods, together with a disciplined approach to practicing, equips you best for the journey into studying this beautiful instrument.
Yshai is one of the best teachers I have ever experienced. Not only has he created a beautiful comprehensive system for the development of skills and techniques, but also through his teaching, empowers us to become better musicians, to learn to listen, to develop a feel, and a keener sense of time, and the inspiration to improvise and to compose. He also has been successful in getting me to practice consistently, and that's no small thing.
Cindy Weitzman, USA — Yshai embodies the rarest combination of being a master drummer and a genuinely caring pedagogue. His thoughtful approach to each lesson strikes a perfect balance between technique work and fun solo pieces. The weekly group classes are eagerly anticipated. Studying with Yshai has been the most enjoyable and effective learning experience I have ever had, and I am deeply grateful for the transformative impact it has had on my musical journey.
Yshai is the real deal. He has a very systematic approach to technique, independence, and musicality that makes it accessible for beginners and challenging for experienced players.
Yshai is, by far, the most accurate and dedicated teacher that I have known! He not only focuses on the technique but also shares his concept to understand music deeply. His self-created method is very well designed with a strong base of exercises and compositions. World class musician with a high standard pedagogical method. I strongly recommend him!
Yshai is the way to dream big and really mastering these instruments. His system is methodical, original and inspiring. A true master musician and educator!
Afterman has a beautiful language for his rhythm — a fluent language with its own alphabet and grammar. Whether you know the musical notes or not, it's impossible not to understand Afterman's grammar and rhythm math. After the alphabet, you learn to read and write; then building sentences, then being able to write paragraphs. Afterman is the right master to learn the grammar of rhythm.
I have been studying in Yshai's Darbuka and Riqq groups for almost two years now. I can say without exaggeration that this is the most efficient and effective musical education I have ever participated in. Yshai's system is extremely well thought through and well organized, and Yshai is a truly gifted and inspirational teacher and musician. I would highly recommend these courses to percussionists at any level who are committed to practicing — if you put in the work and follow the systems, your mind will be blown!
Yshai has a systematic approach. Each lesson builds on the previous and each lesson is packed with knowledge — technically, musically and philosophically. Each lesson links to the previous fluidly; nothing is random or fragmented. If you are serious about learning then this is definitely the course to do. For me (as a former martial artist) Yshai is a martial artist of percussion.
Yshai is an amazing teacher, classes are very detailed with endless digestible warm-ups, exercises and solos in the group classes — you'll never go hungry. I couldn't be happier with my time spent studying with Yshai's expertise; you can feel his passion for teaching and love for music.
For anyone who wants to take a deep dive, with well thought out methodical classes that will take you on a wonderful journey, I highly recommend studying with Yshai Afterman. I often feel elated and excited by his teachings. Give yourself this gift.
The opportunity to learn from Yshai Afterman is an irreplaceable gift. Yshai's method makes the world of rhythm so logical and approachable. What remains to be done is to hold on tight and enjoy the beauty of knowledge.
Meeting Yshai and his teaching has been like a new door opening in my life. His pedagogy and his love for music are a great source of inspiration and make me want to go as far as I can along the path he so generously proposes. Thank you Yshai, I'm very grateful!
Engaging and effortless, working with Yshai is a delightful experience. The methodology is highly structured and intuitively understandable, aimed at ensuring natural progress in practice.
Yshai is a great teacher with a system in place to help students reach their goals. The way information is presented and the tools that accompany each lesson set you up to accomplish the tasks for the week but also open the door to go deeper. If you are looking to study an instrument in great detail, this is the place to do it!
I'm Valerie, I live in Paris. I studied Darbuka for two years and lap style since last year. I'm very impressed by the method, by all the tips we get to practice, to create and to understand music better and better. From week to week, I always know what to do. Precise goals help me to stay focused. Very important talks happen during the lessons — they mean a lot and sometimes I feel like they changed things deeply.
Yshai is a remarkable musician and an equally impressive teacher. As someone with a background in Flamenco Dancing, I was familiar with rhythm on an instinctual level, but understanding and articulating its theoretical aspects were beyond my grasp. Yshai has profoundly deepened my understanding of rhythm. He doesn't just teach drumming — he teaches artistry. Before meeting Yshai, I attended various workshops without finding the structured progression I needed. Yshai has provided that stability, method, and solid foundation essential for my growth.
Yshai's teaching is highly generous. A practice where curiosity and rigorous discipline, light-hearted and professional approach meet — perhaps serious fun. Yshai is a bit like a driving instructor for time-travel vehicles; later the keys stay with me to hit the road. A frame with which I am enabled to develop a cheerful spirit of acquiring a new mastery. It is a great pleasure to explore the infinite dynamic relationships with this primal instrument.
I'm grateful I met Yshai. His method has helped me understand and improve my playing greatly. I appreciate his encouragement and willingness to give individualized feedback. The concepts and techniques he shares open up possibilities to keep on expanding. I have learned a lot more than just playing an instrument — lessons for life!
Not all the great percussion Masters offer online classes, but fortunately Yshai is one of them. The classes are very high quality; Afterman is a very methodical teacher, with very clear objectives and a very precise and enjoyable methodology. His technique is impeccable. If you are a percussion teacher, you will find a lot of new tools to teach your students. I am very fortunate to learn with one of the best and most complete percussionists in the world.
I started learning to play the frame drum as part of Yshai's online class 4 months ago, arriving with no past experience in percussions. Yshai's very systematic and clear approach has enabled me to develop confidence and thoroughly enjoy these months. All lessons are recorded, as well as short videos, music sheets, and clear instructions for weekly practices. I would strongly recommend for anyone to start.
Yshai's teaching skills stand up to his playing skills. He has created a methodic system that, even in group lessons, helps each student grow according to their needs and goals.
I'm studying with Yshai on the upright style. What I love about his way of teaching is the incremental way. You learn something every week and you're challenged. So it really feels like you're learning and getting better. You also learn to create your own rhythms, and suddenly you can do things you couldn't before.
I've really been enjoying the past 5 months learning upright frame with Yshai — the plan is so well-built, every lesson is built on top of the other and the progress is unbelievable. The lessons are super fun! Strong recommendation!
I started studying with Yshai years ago, when my knowledge of darbuka, frame drum and riqq were next to zero. His methods and compositions have allowed me to find my connection with these instruments like never before, and I always have loads of fun practising for lessons. As a result, I have truly fallen in love with the artistry of playing these instruments. These days, I am able to apply what I have learnt to playing as part of an instrumental trio. I am deeply grateful for all the knowledge he has so selflessly imparted.
I have studied three drum styles with Yshai — the riq, frame drum upright, and frame drum lap style. Yshai is an amazing musician and teacher who is passionate about helping others learn and improve their skills. His teaching method is meticulous and well-planned, taking you through everything step by step. If you are wanting to dive deeply into the art of drumming, Yshai is one of the best teachers to study with!
I have been studying with Yshai: Frame Drum, Riq and Darbuka over 3 years. The lessons are very well structured and methodical so that each step in the progress is achievable, taking the student gradually from beginner to advanced in a smooth way. Yshai's ability to analyse and explain technique, movement and rhythmical concepts is clearly at today's highest level. If you are serious about study I highly recommend the lessons.
Everybody knows me as the perpetual percussion student. I've taken group lessons from some of the top people, but there is nobody like Yshai. I was blown away at his lapstyle class at Frame Drums Italia, and came back the next year for more. Although they're group classes on Zoom, they feel like one-on-one in person. I started with his riqq class and am now doing upright frame drum. Wish I could do all four.
To find a great musician and a teacher together is as close to finding a pearl in the ocean, and I was so lucky to find this gem of a person. His teaching methodologies and curriculum are so disciplined and organised. The solos he composes spontaneously for every class are so soulful and intellectual. If you are ready to invest time and be dedicated, years down the lane I promise you would be a maestro and your music would speak for itself.
Searching for a long time for a way to study the frame drums, one day I found Yshai and his online courses. I was always skeptical about online lessons, but now I can say without any doubt that Yshai's method works great! He's a deep musician and crystal clear methodical teacher. Starting from the fundamentals, Yshai grows your learning and skills day by day — every lesson is a new brick on top of the previous one, building a rock-solid technique and rhythmic awareness.
I have been learning Darbuka with Yshai since September 2023. I ended up completely retraining my technique, which now allows me to do things I couldn't do before. The most important thing is the structure and plan of the lessons, which have completely reassured me. I now understand how to practice systematically. I feel confident that if I consistently follow the guidance given in the lessons, I will succeed. I now have a sense of confidence that everything will work out eventually. I'm happy I decided to enroll in this course.
I have been taking online Upright Frame Drum classes with Yshai for six months and I highly recommend him as a teacher. His organizational skills and methodical teaching style have made the practice easy to follow and quite rewarding. I am very pleased with the progress I have made in such a short time and am looking forward to what the next six months brings.
Usually great instrument players may not necessarily be good at teaching, but Yshai is that guy!!! I am so lucky to have discovered Yshai and joined his rhythm course. Professional, informative and systematic learning — how lucky I am to be able to go from beginner to advanced. Thank you Yshai!
I found Yshai's classes serendipitously after wanting to dive into a deeper study of the frame drum for a few years. Yshai is a one-of-a-kind teacher. He teaches a very precise and thorough technique, but he is equally invested in teaching a deeper understanding of rhythm. In addition, his style of teaching is focused on injury prevention. As someone who has struggled with pain in my arms and hands, I found that his style not only prevents injury but has actually helped me to reverse the problem. This is not an easy path but it is 100% worth it!
Yshai is a great teacher! He leads his students on a methodical path full of inspiration. Studying with him took me a few meaningful steps forward both technically and musically. Go for it!
I've enjoyed studying with Yshai very much. You are an amazing, generous, masterful teacher. I've learned an immense amount in such a short time. The first months my mind was blown open in a good way with rhythmic possibilities. Each time new things you share is just expansive and exciting. I'm so grateful for the skills I've learned and look forward to integrating them more in my playing. Your classes have been a significant highlight in my frame drum journey!