Percussionist

Darbuka Live

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About Darbuka

The ultimate darbuka and davoul experience of a Balkan and Middle East Wedding!
Percussionist
London
Public liability insurance of £2m million
Verified profile

As a Greek darbuka and davoul player specialising in Middle Eastern and Balkan music, I bring far more than live percussion to a wedding celebration I bring energy, atmosphere, tradition, and unforgettable emotion. Music has always been at the centre of my life, and performing is not simply a profession for me; it is a passion that allows me to connect people through rhythm, culture, and celebration. Every wedding is unique, and my goal is always the same: to create an experience that guests will remember long after the final song ends. My musical journey began through a deep love for traditional Greek, Balkan, and Middle Eastern rhythms. Over the years, I dedicated myself to mastering both the darbuka and the davoul, learning not only the technical side of percussion but also the emotional language behind the music. These instruments are powerful, expressive, and capable of transforming the atmosphere of an event within seconds. Through years of practice, live performances, and collaboration with talented musicians and dancers, I developed a performance style that combines precision, authenticity, and showmanship. What makes my act incredible is the energy I bring to every performance. I understand how to read a crowd, build excitement, and keep guests fully engaged from the first entrance to the final dance. Whether performing elegant background rhythms during a reception or leading a high-energy Balkan and Middle Eastern dance set, I know how to create the perfect mood for every moment of the wedding. My live drumming performances are interactive, exciting, and deeply rooted in cultural tradition while still feeling modern and dynamic. As an experienced wedding performer, professionalism is extremely important to me. I arrive fully prepared, dressed appropriately for the occasion, and committed to delivering a flawless performance. I work closely with couples, DJs, live bands, and event planners to ensure that the music flows perfectly throughout the event. Reliability, timing, and communication are just as important to me as musical talent, because I understand that weddings are once-in-a-lifetime celebrations where every detail matters. Throughout my career, I have performed at weddings, private celebrations, festivals, cultural events, and live music venues for audiences of all backgrounds. One of the highlights of my journey has been seeing people from different cultures come together on the dance floor through rhythm and celebration. There is nothing more rewarding than watching guests clap, dance, and lose themselves in the music. My performances create a vibrant and festive atmosphere that naturally brings people together. Choosing the right musician for a wedding is about more than hiring someone who can play an instrument — it is about finding someone who understands celebration, emotion, and connection. As a Greek darbuka and davoul player with a passion for Middle Eastern and Balkan music, I bring authenticity, charisma, professionalism, and unforgettable live energy to every event. If you want your wedding party to feel alive, exciting, and truly unique, I am the perfect choice to make your celebration extraordinary.

Darbuka
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5 out of 5
2 verified reviews

Darbuka's Reviews

From customers:

KS
Kevin S
7 years ago, for a Concert in Hertfordshire
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5 out of 5

Alberto is brilliant drummer! We had a great night with him on the drums! 100% recomend him!

ES
Eliza S
9 years ago, for a Private event in London
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5 out of 5

Alberto is a fabulous drummer! We played 3 gigs together and he's very professional. Highly recommended.

Encore badges
7th Anniversary
This act has been working with Encore for over 7 years
Encore expert
Demonstrated expertise by completing the Encore Academy

Darbuka's Song list

Some Greek songs:
1. Siko Xorepse Koukli Mou – Stelios Kazantzidis & Marinella
2. Anapse To Tsigaro – Spyros Zagoreos & Gioula Andreadou
3. Aneva Sto Trapezi Mou – Manolis Angelopoulos
4. O Salonikios – Stratos Dionysiou
5. Tha Spaso Koupes – Glykeria
6. To Kokkino Foustani – Eleftheria Arvanitaki
7. Exo Dertia Kai Kaemi – Stelios Kazantzidis
8. Apagorevete Na S’ Agapao – Antypas
9. Hariklaki – Glykeria
10. Aman Kai Pos – Thanos Petrelis
11. Anavis Foties – Despina Vandi
12. Zilevo – Giorgos Mazonakis
13. Ston Evdomo Ourano – Lefteris Pantazis
14. To Pes Kai To Kanes – Rita Sakellariou
15. Horis To Moro Mou – Anna Vissi
16. Vara Mou To Ntefi – Katerina Stanisi
17. Siko Ke Fyge – Notis Sfakianakis
18. Bam Ke Kato – Lambis Livieratos
19. I Oraia – Thanos Petrelis
20. Tha ta kapso to lefta mou- Vasillis Tsitsanis
Some Arabic songs:
1. Ya Rayah- Rachid Taha
2. Ya Amar - Amir Diab
3. Allah Aleik Ya seedy- Ehab Tawfik

Darbuka's Prices

Last updated: 2026

Note: prices may vary based on travel distance. For an exact quote, click “Check availability”.

Standard Prices
DurationPrice
Short performance (up to 15 min)£500
Up to 1 hour£625
Up to 2 hours£812.50
Up to 3 hours£1000
Customer questions

What do your clients love most about your performances?

Clients love the energy and atmosphere I bring to every event. My live darbuka and davoul performances create unforgettable moments, keeping guests dancing and fully engaged. Combining authentic Balkan and Middle Eastern rhythms with professionalism, crowd interaction, and powerful live energy, I turn every wedding into a vibrant celebration.

Which venues have you performed at in the past?

Weddings, events and ethnic festivals

Which artists have you been most influenced by?

Balkan and Middle East Music

What if my timings change after I've booked you?

Usually I let the whole day empty if I have to travel to play. So probably it will be fine if you let me know a bit earlier so I can arrange my leaving time.

Can you provide an iPod/DJ service before and between your sets?

Yes

How much time do you need to set up?

30 minutes

Can I pick the pieces you play from the set list?

Yes

Do you bring all the equipment you need to perform?

Yes I will bring all my equipment with me.

Can you learn specific pieces before the event?

Yes I can learn a specific song of your choice.
Musicianship
Genres:
Greek music, Folk, Balkan, World music, Arabic, Easy listening, Tribute
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Instruments:
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Event types:
Wedding, Recording session, Wedding proposal, Church service, Hotel / Restaurant event, Bar / Club / Venue event, Private event, Corporate event, Concert, Cruise, Burns night, Birthday party, Christmas party, New Year's Eve, Theatre / Show
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Other skills:
Producer, Songwriter, Lyricist, Arranger, Drum technician, Live looping, Instrumental teaching
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