Shik Shak Shok Darbuka Sheet Music and Solo Techniques

Shik Shak Shok , composed by Hassan Abou El Seoud, has been a staple of oriental dance and percussion shows since 1974. With its dynamic transitions and accelerating structure, the piece allows a darbuka player to showcase all their skills.

🎼 Shik Shak Shok: Main Rhythm Pattern

The majority of the song is built around the Maksun (Maqsum) rhythm. However, it is the embellishments throughout that define the song's character.

Basic Cycle (4/4):

DT - TD - T -(Dum Tek - Tek Dum - Tek -)

🥁 Solo Section: Step-by-Step Sheet Music

Let's examine the most popular solo part of Shik Shak Shok by dividing it into 3 main sections:

Chapter 1: Introduction and Response (Slow/Medium)

The solo usually begins with the part where the darbuka player "speaks." Here, the beats are precise and distinct.

• Note: DTKT | DDT -

• Sheet Music: DTKT | DDT - (Repeat)

Section 2: The Dynamic Middle Section

The rhythm begins to quicken and become more ornate.

• Note: D kt T kt | DDT -

• Note: D kt T kt | DDT -

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(The "kt" here refers to a very fast left-right stroke, giving it that famous agility.)

Chapter 3: Fast-Paced Finale (Climax)

This is the most energetic part of the song, where the "shik shak shok" lyrics blend perfectly with the rhythm.

• Note: D ktk | T ktk | DDT -

• Note: D ktk | T ktk | DDT -

✨ Technical Secrets Used While Playing Shik Shak Shok

To play this piece, simply pressing the notes isn't enough; you need to apply the following techniques:

1. "Slap" Stroke: During the stressful parts of the song (especially transitions), use your right hand to deliver a firm slap stroke, close to the center of the skin but hitting the edge.

2. Fingertip Embellishments: Use your ring and middle fingers independently and very lightly to produce the "chirping" sounds in the song.

3. Accelerando: Shik Shak Shok is not a static song; gradually increase the metronome as the solos progress to create excitement for the listener.

📝 Shik Shak Shok Practice Chart

Section	Rhythm Type	Highlight Point
Entrance	Heavy Maksun	The first "Dum" beat should be a deep, resonant one.
Development	Decorated Maksun	The "Singles" in between should be sharp.
Solo	Quick Malfuf / Falahi	Finger speed and precision are paramount.
Final	Free Attack	Finished with a sharp "Slap"

How can you play this piece better?

Seeing the sheet music for Shik Shak Shok on paper is a great starting point, but you'll be much more successful if you listen to the original recording of "Hassan Abou El Seoud - Shik Shak Shok" and let the rhythm stick in your ear.