Muzhars

Muzhars are a frame drum from Egypt. They consist of a frame approximately 5" deep and 11" diameter with four sets of large brass zils, or cymbals that pass through the frame (like a tambourine) and a drumhead. Though similar to other frame drums such as the tar, the bendir and the bodhrán, the muzhar is most closely related to the riq (Arabic tambourine). The muzhar is held in a large cut-out area at the bottom of the frame with the left hand and the right hand reaches in front of the head to play in a fashion similar to the tar. A heavy drum, the muzhar is also quite loud. Usually the muzhar accompanies other drums such as the tar, riq and dumbek. It is very effective in changing from one section of music to the next, adding depth to the music and filling out rhythms that other drums are playing.