"Dom Dom Tak" – The Healing Beat of Community with Wael Jupiter at Kulturnest

On March 4, 2025, Kulturnest pulsed with the sound of drums, laughter, and connection as we hosted a special evening dedicated to percussions.

Led by the ever-energetic and inspiring Wael Jupiter from Minalshaab, the session invited everyone—seasoned musicians and absolute beginners alike—into a rhythmic journey of percussion, community, and expression. People gathered in a circle, each holding a percussion instrument and tapping along with hands and feet, creating a powerful collective rhythm that echoed beyond the walls of Kulturnest.

Minalshaab, known as a multicultural arts group dedicated to spreading good citizenship and unity through music, visual arts, and theater, brought their philosophy to life that evening. Wael didn’t just guide a drum circle; he created a safe, open space for everyone to let go, express themselves, and reconnect through the universal language of rhythm.

The Power of Percussion: More Than Music

Percussion, at its essence, is primal. Its repetitive, grounding beats have been used for millennia in rituals, celebrations, and storytelling. But beyond its cultural richness, percussion holds transformative potential on many levels:

• Art Therapy & Emotional Expression: The physical act of drumming allows participants to release pent-up emotions, stress, and anxiety. The rhythm becomes a form of non-verbal communication—an outlet to express feelings that words might fail to capture, especially in times of trauma or turmoil.
  
  
• Mind-Body Connection: Percussion requires focus, coordination, and presence. As you sync your heartbeat to the drum’s beat, you find yourself more in tune with your body and breath, creating a meditative, calming effect.
  
  
• Community & Belonging: Sitting in a drum circle fosters a deep sense of togetherness. Each person contributes their unique rhythm, but it’s the blend of all sounds that creates harmony—a perfect metaphor for society itself.

Why It Matters in Lebanon Today

Lebanon, a country constantly grappling with the scars of conflict and instability, is in dire need of spaces where people can reconnect, heal, and find unity. In such an environment, the role of music—and particularly percussion—becomes even more vital.

Every beat played at Kulturnest that night carried more than just sound. It carried resilience, hope, and the subtle yet strong reminder that despite the chaos surrounding us, we can still come together to create beauty and meaning.

Wael Jupiter and Minalshaab’s mission to promote citizenship and unity through the arts resonates deeply in a war-torn context. It's not just about music—it's about reclaiming agency, fostering solidarity, and nurturing mental well-being.

No Experience Needed, Just Heart

One of the most beautiful aspects of this session was its inclusivity. You didn’t need to be a trained musician. You didn’t need to know the beats. All you needed was to show up, bring your presence, maybe a drum, and let yourself be carried by the collective rhythm.

At Kulturnest, we believe that music is a bridge—to yourself, to others, and something larger. The "Dom Dom Tak" Percussion Session was a vivid reminder of how even simple, ancient sounds can cut through noise and fear, and remind us all of the power of human connection.

Here’s to many more nights like this!