Unlike some other drums, the djembe is a true hand drum because it is played only with the hands and no mallet or drumstick is used. Part of the appeal of the djembe drum is the long, rich history associated with it. The djembe is a worthy addition to any music group or band, adding another dimension and accentuating the rhythm. A few of the questions that are sometimes asked before purchasing djembe drums will be addressed in this article.
What is a Djembe Drum?
Traditional Djembe drums are goblet shaped, carved from a single log and covered with goat skin as the drumhead. A newer type might be constructed of fiberglass and have a cover that is synthetic. Regardless of how advanced you are, impressive sounds can be achieved from either type.
Which area originated the Djembe?
These drums originated from Western Africa, more specifically from Mali. This kind of drum originated with and is important to the Mandika community. Superstition concerning these drums claims that three spiritual beings live within them. The wood reflects the tree spirit, the hide covering reflects the animal spirit, and the spirit of the one who has made it is also there.
According to the Mandika the first djembe was given to them by djinn, which was believed to have been some kind of mythological creature or genie. This being supposedly showed them how to make the drum and gave them knowledge of its use. For them this has created a spiritual significance.
What are the kinds of sounds that are connected with a Djembe?
Just three easy movements of the hand will let you make a lot of music on this kind of drum. The three are the slap, tone, and base. Striking the center of the head with the ball of the hand causes the base. This creates a lower, more rounded sound. The tone is created by hitting the edge of the drum with the base of the fingers when they are very relaxed. The sound produced is higher and somewhat dull. The slap is made using the same motion as the tone but the fingers are bounced off the head creating a sharp, ringing sound. By combining these movements of the hand lots of new sounds can be created, which makes this a quite versatile drum.
Can these drums be tuned?
With this type of drum, the tighter it is the better it sounds. If the drum starts sounding flat, it can be tightened by loosening some of the supporting strings and pulling them tighter until the sound is clearer. Remember,stringing a goat skin head drum might be quite a challenge because of the large number of strings involved.
Such a drum is easy to play and blends well with the other instruments in the group. A good choice for anyone willing to give it a try is the versatile djembe.
What is a Djembe Drum?
Traditional Djembe drums are goblet shaped, carved from a single log and covered with goat skin as the drumhead. A newer type might be constructed of fiberglass and have a cover that is synthetic. Regardless of how advanced you are, impressive sounds can be achieved from either type.
Which area originated the Djembe?
These drums originated from Western Africa, more specifically from Mali. This kind of drum originated with and is important to the Mandika community. Superstition concerning these drums claims that three spiritual beings live within them. The wood reflects the tree spirit, the hide covering reflects the animal spirit, and the spirit of the one who has made it is also there.
According to the Mandika the first djembe was given to them by djinn, which was believed to have been some kind of mythological creature or genie. This being supposedly showed them how to make the drum and gave them knowledge of its use. For them this has created a spiritual significance.
What are the kinds of sounds that are connected with a Djembe?
Just three easy movements of the hand will let you make a lot of music on this kind of drum. The three are the slap, tone, and base. Striking the center of the head with the ball of the hand causes the base. This creates a lower, more rounded sound. The tone is created by hitting the edge of the drum with the base of the fingers when they are very relaxed. The sound produced is higher and somewhat dull. The slap is made using the same motion as the tone but the fingers are bounced off the head creating a sharp, ringing sound. By combining these movements of the hand lots of new sounds can be created, which makes this a quite versatile drum.
Can these drums be tuned?
With this type of drum, the tighter it is the better it sounds. If the drum starts sounding flat, it can be tightened by loosening some of the supporting strings and pulling them tighter until the sound is clearer. Remember,stringing a goat skin head drum might be quite a challenge because of the large number of strings involved.
Such a drum is easy to play and blends well with the other instruments in the group. A good choice for anyone willing to give it a try is the versatile djembe.
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Are you thinking of buying a djembe drum? Make sure that you visit the Djembe Drum Shop, as you will find a superb selection of drums and percussion instruments. Packs for colleges and drumming groups also available at www.djembedrumshop.com.
