Friday, March 30, 2012

Guide to African Percussion and Drums

By Ruth Williams


Many of today's drums and percussion instruments originated from Africa. It has been the tradition that African instruments, including percussion instruments and drums are part of the communication system along with celebrations. Many kinds of percussion instruments, including drums, are widely used in Africa, some styles being more common among the people than others. There are many drum styles available, plus unique drum decorations, so you can customize your instrument.

Djembe Drums

Traditionally djembe drums are carved from one hollowed block of wood. The drum is shaped something like an hourglass, with a head that is usually constructed from 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. The drum is versatile, and a single head produces a vast array of sounds.

Dundun Drums Explained

In terms of their configuration, dundun drums resemble a hollowed-out cylindrical shape. 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 sound of the drum is also impacted by the head's thickness and material. Bare hands or a stick can be used to play dunduns. Quite often, a bell is attached to the side of the drum. This drum is traditionally played sideways with one hand playing the head and the other playing the bell.

An Overview of Kpanlogo Drums

Tracing back to Ghana in Africa, kpanlogo drums are distinguished in appearance from the rest of the drums originating on the continent. The body of the drum is like that of contemporary conga drums, but it also has pegs 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. These unique instruments add flavor and a variety of voices when played in a group, taking any ensemble to the next level. The hand percussion helps to involve everyone present in the playing of the music. Kids, elderly and disabled people can participate in the auxiliary percussion as members of drum circles, shows and celebrations.




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