In Fall 2009, Al-Bustan formed the Philadelphia Arab Percussion Ensemble led by Percussion Director Hafez Kotain. The Ensemble grew out of an all youth percussion ensemble which began in 2004, with weekly classes held at University of Pennsyvlania’s Greenfield Intercultural Center.
Currently the ensemble meets on Thursday evenings at University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Music and is open to high school students and older. A beginner and intermediate class is offered to accommodate different skill levels. The Arab Percussion Method Book, developed by Hafez Kotain, provides a useful tool for learning a variety of techniques, drills, and arrangements. Each semester includes at least one culminating concert performance.
