Until his early twenties, Dániel Franczia was torn between a career in music and drama. Now 38, Franczia credits his deep passion for music, particularly drumming, to his mentors during his formative years in Győr, Hungary. “My elementary school was heavily focused on music, and I had incredible teachers who introduced me to classical drums, percussion, and other instruments,” he tells the Budapest Business Journal.
As a youth, Franczia struggled to balance his academic studies with his dual passions for music and acting. Ultimately, it was his fascination with the darbuka, an iconic “goblet drum” used in Middle Eastern and Balkan folk music, that steered him toward music. “I was captivated by the darbuka after seeing it played by Ádám Pettik of the Hungarian band Besh o droM. The sound of this Egyptian drum was enchanting,” he recalls.
Franczia’s first darbuka, a Turkish model, was a stroke of serendipity. “I got it as a practice instrument from a band leader who didn’t even know exactly what it was,” he says. As he studied Hungarian literature and ethics at Veszprém University, Franczia initially mimicked Pettik’s style, holding the drum between his legs. However, upon discovering that Middle Eastern musicians hold the drum to the side, he adapted his technique, realizing it allowed for greater musical expression.
Determined to popularize the darbuka in Hungary, Franczia faced a significant challenge: the instrument is not traditionally taught in Hungarian institutions and requires private instruction in the Middle East. Practicing diligently, he began teaching students, using techniques he developed from his drama background to enhance his music teaching methods.
In 2014, Franczia transitioned from teaching literature to a full-time career as a freelance music teacher. He struggled initially but found a breakthrough in 2021 when the European Capital of Culture invited him to join the Hangjáték program, aimed at grassroots music engagement. “This opportunity opened many doors for me and allowed me to focus on what I love without financial stress,” he says.
Franczia’s “Joy Drumming” workshops, which he began offering weekly, attract diverse participants. “There are no prerequisites for attending. People from all walks of life—whether they’re students, working professionals, or retirees—come together to learn basic drumming techniques and enjoy making music,” he explains.
Though the Hangjáték program concluded with Veszprém’s European Capital of Culture year, Franczia continues to teach and lead workshops. His “Joy Drumming” sessions, initially popular among Erasmus students from Pannon University, have left a lasting impact.
László Fodor from Felsőörs praises Franczia’s teaching approach. “Dani’s sessions are incredibly liberating, allowing people of all ages to express themselves without fear of judgment. His patience and encouragement, even when mistakes are made, make him an outstanding teacher,” Fodor says.
Franczia’s educational philosophy contrasts with Hungary’s traditional approach, embracing mistakes as part of the learning process. “People are often surprised to learn they’re free to make mistakes here. I encourage them to do so, emphasizing that there are no consequences for errors,” he adds.
