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I create improvised performances where dance and finger cymbals become one expressive practice.

Rooted in Middle Eastern dance traditions and shaped by my mixed Scottish and Anatolian Greek heritage, my work explores identity, musicality and intercultural connections.

Performance - Collaboration - Education

Decorative Floral Tiles

Watch Performances

Improvised dance and finger cymbal performance for festivals, concerts, cultural events and collaborations.

 

I view dancing and playing the finger cymbals as one cohesive physicality and explore personal themes of mixed identity as a way of promoting interculturalism within society.

 

My dance aesthetics are influenced by the vintage era of Egyptian dance and ottoman influences.

Collaborate with me

Working with musicians, dancers, artists and intercultural organisations collaboratively on a wide range of projects

 

I'm interested in the places where art, cultures, genre and community intersect.

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I can bring a Middle Eastern musical viewpoint to multi-genres to explore new boundaries and promote interculturalism.

Learn Finger Cymbals

Online classes to learn finger cymbals as a standalone instrument or with dance will be coming soon.

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I am currently working on my own method for learning finger cymbals with a focus on dancers keeping their own style and being able to improvise freely,

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This combines my early training as a musician with over a decade of dance experience.

Current Work

​I am currently working on a solo performance for the following event organised by Nancy Ahmar of 'Latino Dance Project.' 

Dancing Bridges - Breaking Boundaries. Queens Park Govanhill, Glasgow

Saturday 15th August 4.30pm

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I collaborate with and perform as a member of 'Mediterra Music Lab.' 

 A collective of musicians organised by Faidra Roumpeka -playing music from around the Mediterranean and rehearsing weekly at 'Wee Greek Kitchen' Edinburgh.

​Our next performance will be:

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2026 Community Stage

Outside St Giles Cathedral

Thursday 27th August 4.30pm

​I am developing a finger cymbal method for teaching finger cymbals in order to provide online classes and in-person workshops. As well as my own personal study I also study music theory with composer Carlijn Metselaar to assist in this endeavor.

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I am continuing to study 'Vocations' with philosopher Joe Ulli, who has been instrumental in me developing my career as a 'Dancing Cymbalist' since unearthing my careers archetype in January this year.

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My creative practice takes place at 'Studio Cybele' an artist's studio I hire in East Lothian. I hand sew many antique fabrics and elements as well as collect vintage pieces for my performance costumes and am interested in the history and materiality of the items I use.

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I am available for performances and collaborations. Please contact me for more information or to discuss any ideas for creative projects.

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Improvisation - Mixed Heritage - Interculturalism - Creative Embodiment - Collaboration - Studio Cybele

Artist Statement

My work as a Dancing Cymbalist focuses on Middle Eastern dance and music as an expression of personal identity to promote interculturalism and connection.

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"I'm fascinated by the point where music and movement stop being separate disciplines and become one improvisational language."

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Let's create something together...

Please send me an email or fill in the contact box below to discuss your next idea or project:

  • Performance Bookings

  • Festivals, Concerts or Events

  • Collaboration Projects or Artistic Works

  • Classes and Workshops

 

Email me: natalie@dancingcymbalist.com

Natalie Borg - Dancing Cymbalist

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

Get in touch

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