DRUMMER FOR
PALESTINE

Who We Are

We are a collective of passionate drummers united by a shared purpose: to amplify the Palestinian movement and raise morale through the power of rhythm. Our beats echo in the streets, providing a rallying call for justice, solidarity, and resistance.

Our Code of Conduct (Highlights)

As members of MD4P, we commit to the following guiding principles:

  • We treat others how we want to be treated—both in person and online. We act with kindness and respect, fostering an inclusive space for all.
  • We remain mindful of how our tone or phrasing might impact others, striving for open and constructive dialogue.
  • We challenge any oppressive behavior (sexism, racism, homophobia) in ourselves and others, aiming to keep the group safe and welcoming.
  • We commit to using protective equipment (like ear protection) during events, and encourage others to do the same.
  • If approached about our behavior, we stay open and reflective on how to improve.

“Our mission is to amplify the Palestinian movement and raise morale. We invite everyone to join our percussive purpose. We bring thunder in the streets until Palestine is free!”

View Full Code of Conduct

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Drumming Rhythms and Hand Signals

Our rhythms are built on a foundational 4-count structure. Each beat is crafted for clarity and power. Whether it’s a steady pulse or complex layered patterns, every rhythm is designed to inspire.

Composition Beats: The Five Levels

Each level builds upon the previous one: Level 1: A steady pulse on every count. Level 2: Double beats on counts 1 and 3. Level 3: Solid beats on counts 1-3 with a rapid tri-beat on count 4. Level 4: Explosive 4th count with rapid-fire hits. Level 5: A continuous, powerful hi-hat pulse.

Level 1

Single beat every count.

Level 2

Double beat on counts 1 and 3.

Level 3

Solid beats on counts 1-3 with a tri-beat on count 4.

Level 4

Level 3 with an explosive 4th count (17 rapid hits then 4 rests).

Level 5

Continuous hi-hat pulse on every count.

Level Description
Level 1 Single beat every count
Level 2 Double beat on counts 1 and 3
Level 3 Solid beats on counts 1-3 with a tri-beat on count 4
Level 4 Explosive 4th count (17 hits, then 4 rests)
Level 5 Continuous hi-hat pulse

Standalone Beats

Single Beat

A steady hit every count.

Double Beat

Hits only on counts 1 and 3.

Quadruple Beat

A hit on every count.

Single Tri-Beat

Three rapid hits in one count.

Double Tri-Beat

Tri-beats on counts 1 and 3.

Quadruple Tri-Beat

Tri-beats on every count.

Clave

Classic pattern: “Shut the sys-tem down.”

Karla Prog Break 1

4 soft beats, 4 medium, 4 loud, then 4 rests.

Beat How It's Played
8 Beat 8 hits in a 16-step measure (every 2 steps)
1 Tri-Hit Three rapid hits on count 1

Chant-Beats: Gaza

Level Description
Level 1 Basic beat for everyone
Level 2 Snares add a rim beat
Level 3 Surdos add a single tri-beat
Level 4 Snares play a technical pattern
Level 5 Signature “hedgehog” tune

Gaza Patterns

End The Occupation

Level Description
Level 1 Only snares play
Level 2 Everyone joins in
Level 3 Snares add a technical twist
Level 4 Snares perform 3/4 of a hedgehog loop
Notes Levels 4+ are guided by the whistler for clarity.

We Are The People

Level Description
Level 1 Surdos only
Level 2 Snares join with a rim beat (usually twice)
Level 3 Snares shift to full technical mode
Notes The whistler may hold Level 2 to build momentum.

Complete Beats Overview

Beat How It's Played
8 Beat 8 hits in a 16-step measure (every 2 steps)
1 Tri-Hit Three rapid hits on count 1

Karla Tune

This section presents the Karla Tune. View the sheet music here and read the description here.

Below are the available Karla patterns. Click a button to hear that pattern.

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