Percussion and African Drum Guide
Sep 21, 2011 Movies & Music
Posted by
Ruth Williams
A lot of percussion instruments and drums have their roots in Africa. Traditionally, African instruments such as drums and percussion were used for communication as well as celebration. A number of kinds of percussion instruments and drums are still in widespread use across the African continent, while some versions are more popular than others. There are many drum styles available, plus unique drum decorations, so you can customize your instrument.
The Djembe Drums
Djembe drums are traditionally carved from a single hollowed piece of wood. The basic shape of the drum is similar to an hourglass, and it has a head that is often made of goat skin. The tuning of authentic djembe drums is done with braided roping that encircles the instruments’ shells, and modern versions incorporate man-made material. This drum is very versatile, with a wide range of sounds produced from a single-headed drum.
Dundun Drums Explained
Dundun drums are a shaped like a hollowed cylinder. They are rope tuned and use two heads. The tonal qualities of the drum are determined by the diameter, length and thickness of the drum’s walls. The material and thickness of the heads also have an impact on the voice of this drum. Bare hands or a stick can be used to play dunduns. Frequently, a bell will be connected to the side of the drum instrument. This drum is traditionally played sideways with one hand playing the head and the other playing the bell.
Kpanlogo Drums
Tracing back to Ghana in Africa, kpanlogo drums are distinguished in appearance from the rest of the drums originating on the continent. While in shape, the body of the drum resembles a contemporary conga instrument, in reality, pegs are used to secure the ropes. Rope lining the instrument from its top to its pegs makes this drum distinctive in appearance. The drum size can vary, as does the tone; the larger the drum, the lower the tone it produces. In groups, a single player can play as many as three or four kpanlogo drums at a single time.
Hand Percussion
There is quite a bit of variation when it comes to smaller percussion or drum instruments played by hand. Many percussion type instruments, including agogo bells, different types of shakers, wood blocks, maracas and cabassas all have their origins in Africa. The unique flavors of these instruments add colorful voices and allow ensembles to reach new, unexpected horizons. The hand percussion helps to involve everyone present in the playing of the music. Children, older people and those that are handicapped can play an auxiliary percussion as part of drum circles, renditions and parties.
Looking to purchase percussion packs for school music lessons or drumming groups? You should make sure you visit the Djembe Drum Shop to view their many packs and also to order online -www.djembedrumshop.com.
Tags: African Instruments, agogo, Djembe drums, drum head, dundun drum, ghana, hand percussion, kpanlogo, Movies & Music, musical instruments, percussion, rope tuned, shakers, synthetic, traditional djembe drum
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