The pandereta (tambourine) is one of the core instruments in Galician folk music. It plays an essential role in accompanying vocals as well as in bandas de gaita (traditional bagpipe groups). However, it is equally suited for accompanying folk music from other Celtic traditions.

The course

In this beginner’s course, we will learn the technique of the Galician pandereta and the most important basic rhythms: Muiñeira, jota, pasodoble, and rumba. Once we have mastered the basics, we will work on variations, improvisation, and speed. We will also take some time to briefly explore other percussion instruments, such as conchas (shells) and the pandeiro. The rhythms are not difficult, but regular practice is important to build up speed! To help you with this, you will get access to practice videos to use at home.

The goal of the course is playing together, both with other percussion instruments (tambor, bombo…) and, of course, with the Galician gaita (bagpipe). Since the Gaita course takes place at the same time, joint sessions will be scheduled to play together with the bagpipe students, helping you develop a better feel for Galician music. If you would later like to sing and accompany vocals, you can join the course taught by Veronica Codesal.

This course is aimed at beginners: those who have never played percussion before are very welcome, as well as those who already have experience with other percussion instruments. If you are not a beginner but would still like to take the course, please contact the teacher directly at karen.depooter@gmail.com.

Inscriptions open on August 10 2026!

Come and discover this course during the free meeting session on Thursday 24 September 2026, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm.

Collective lesson (8 classes/cycle)

Thursday: 6:30 – 7:30 pm

Registration is required from the second course of the cycle.

The general conditions relating to the academy are available and can be consulted on the info page in the academy section of the Muziekpublique website.