Welcome to the website of Tim Garside / Garsaaidi, (Garsaaidi is the name I have released most of my cds under,) I am first a percussionist who has specialised in Arabic Drumming since 1985. Over time I have also learnt to play Nay, Arghul, Simsimiyya, Setar, Dulcimer, Citole and many more {See instruments}, My studies have encompassed a broad range of influences from all over the Middle East and beyond which define my playing.

Tim Garside - Garsaaidi

My style has been shaped, developed and inspired by the bond between dance and rhythm, I have played for dancers almost as soon as I could play the rhythms and continue to do so as it is an eternally creative process.

I have worked in schools all over the country for over 15 years, teaching primarily Egyptian hand drumming; and in that time I have taught over 20,000 children through a variety of projects.

In addition, I teach adult workshops with various drumming themes as well as private lessons. {See education}

I have taught at RADA, SOAS, Trinity College of music and the Guildhall school of Music. My work has included Film, TV, Radio, theatre, sessions, tours, functions, weddings, Haflas and countless dance and educational workshops.

My style of playing has also lent itself to Early Music/Medieval Ensembles, principally Joglaresa, {See links} who I have worked with for over 15 years.

Please contact me by email if you have any queries at garsaaidi@hotmail.com