The frame drum is the world’s oldest known instrument, say organisers of an upcoming workshops series, “extensively played by women throughout the Eastern Mediterranean for thousands of years. Archaeological finds from as early as 1000BC indicate the importance and prevalence of the women frame drummers of Cyprus. In no other place of comparable size so many female frame drum figurines have been unearthed. They were found in Goddess temples and tombs across the island, suggesting their crucial role in both ceremonial rituals and in the lives of the people.”

Exploring the ancient world of frame drumming and the Cypriot women that practised it, an introductory event and a series of workshops will take place in Nicosia this autumn. Co-organised by the Gardens of the Future, Ma Cacao Rhythm & Dance and facilitator Ianthi Sparsis, the first event happens this Saturday and is free to attend.

Titled When the Drummers Were Women: An Introduction to Ancient Ritual Frame Drum Practices, the event will begin at 3.30pm, led by frame drum enthusiast Ianthi. Aiming to introduce the drums, the event will consist of a discussion and a presentation of this ancient heritage of Cypriot women frame drummers based on the writings and teachings of the author, frame drummer, and drum historian Layne Redmond.

Then a series of eight in-person classes for beginners will begin on October 13 on the art of ritual frame drumming. Every Thursday until December 1, participants will gather at Gardens of Future and study and revive the ancient Mediterranean traditions of women’s ceremonial frame drumming. Incorporating body awareness, rhythm, breaking and sound, the classes will teach participants the life of frame drumming.

When the Drummers Were Women: An Introduction to Ancient Ritual Frame Drum Practices

Introductory presentation to frame drumming in Cyprus. October 8. Gardens of the Future, Nicosia. 3.30pm-6pm. Free. Facebook @enterthegardens

The Art of Ritual Frame Drumming

A cycle of 8 lessons. October 13 and every Thursday until December 1. Gardens of Future, Nicosia. 6.30pm-8pm. €15 per class or €80 for all eight sessions. Registration: 99-388441