The djembe drum is classified as a hand drum and unlike other types of drums it is solely played with the hands rather than a mallet or drumstick. Part of the reason the djembe is so popular is that it has a colorful history behind it. A music group that has a djembe adds a new aspect that accentuates the music's beat. This article provides you with some of the information you may want to know before you buy a djembe drum.
What is the definition of a Djembe drum?
Conventional Djembe drums are shaped like a goblet, made from one log and the drumhead is wrapped in goat skin. 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.
In what place did the Djembe drum begin?
Such drums came from the country of Mali in Western Africa. This kind of drum originated with and is important to the Mandika community. Legend says that such drams are sacred because they are inhabited by three spirits from three different beings. The first is the spirit of the tree, the second is from the animal whose hide is used on it, and the third is the spirit of the maker.
The Mandika said that they got the original djembe from djinn; which was thought to be a mythological beast. This was the being thought to have taught them the way to make a drum and telling them about how it should be used. This has allowed them to find a spiritual significance in it.
What kinds of sounds does the Djembe drum make?
These types of drums are very versatile with the sounds that can be made using three simple hand motions. The three are the slap, tone, and base. The base is caused by striking the ball of the hand on the center of the head. This makes a deeper, rounder 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 is higher and a bit dull. The slap and the tone are made with the same movement, but with the former the fingers bounce off the head and make a ringing sound that is sharper. By combining these movements of the hand lots of new sounds can be created, which makes this a quite versatile drum.
Is it possible to tune these drums?
They say that with these drums, the tighter, the better. Drums can sound flat every now and then, and the best remedy for this is to loosen the drum's supporting strings, then try pulling the strings tight to clear up the sound. It's not easy to do since the drum must be strung with many of them so that an even pressure is kept on its head made of goat skin.
This type of drum is very simple to use and compliments other instruments very well. The djembe is so versatile and simple that everyone who wants to play should try it out.
What is the definition of a Djembe drum?
Conventional Djembe drums are shaped like a goblet, made from one log and the drumhead is wrapped in goat skin. 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.
In what place did the Djembe drum begin?
Such drums came from the country of Mali in Western Africa. This kind of drum originated with and is important to the Mandika community. Legend says that such drams are sacred because they are inhabited by three spirits from three different beings. The first is the spirit of the tree, the second is from the animal whose hide is used on it, and the third is the spirit of the maker.
The Mandika said that they got the original djembe from djinn; which was thought to be a mythological beast. This was the being thought to have taught them the way to make a drum and telling them about how it should be used. This has allowed them to find a spiritual significance in it.
What kinds of sounds does the Djembe drum make?
These types of drums are very versatile with the sounds that can be made using three simple hand motions. The three are the slap, tone, and base. The base is caused by striking the ball of the hand on the center of the head. This makes a deeper, rounder 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 is higher and a bit dull. The slap and the tone are made with the same movement, but with the former the fingers bounce off the head and make a ringing sound that is sharper. By combining these movements of the hand lots of new sounds can be created, which makes this a quite versatile drum.
Is it possible to tune these drums?
They say that with these drums, the tighter, the better. Drums can sound flat every now and then, and the best remedy for this is to loosen the drum's supporting strings, then try pulling the strings tight to clear up the sound. It's not easy to do since the drum must be strung with many of them so that an even pressure is kept on its head made of goat skin.
This type of drum is very simple to use and compliments other instruments very well. The djembe is so versatile and simple that everyone who wants to play should try it out.
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Considering buying a djembe drum? Make sure you check out the Djembe Drum Shop, as you will certainly find a superb variety of drums and percussion instruments. Packs for schools and drumming groups available too at www.djembedrumshop.com.
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