Tbilat

Tbilat (singular: Tbil) is a double-sided goblet drum primarily used in traditional Moroccan music, particularly in the Gnawa tradition and other folk styles. The Tbilat are typically made of terracotta, though metal versions also exist, and are covered with stretched animal skin, often goat or camel. The drums are usually played in pairs or larger ensembles, with each player holding two Tbilat and striking them with sticks. The pitch of each drum can be adjusted slightly by wetting the skin or applying heat.

The sound produced by the Tbilat is sharp and percussive, providing a rhythmic backbone to the music. They are an integral part of the trance-inducing ceremonies associated with Gnawa music, where they are used to accompany chanting and other instruments like the guembri (a three-stringed lute). The rhythmic patterns played on the Tbilat are complex and varied, reflecting the rich musical heritage of Morocco. Playing techniques often involve intricate hand movements and coordination between the two drums.