Djembe Drums: A Response To Your Questions
Tuesday, November 15th, 2011Unlike 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. The djembe has a lot of history associated with it, which is part of its appeal. A music group that has a djembe adds a new aspect that accentuates the music’s beat. A few of the questions that are sometimes asked before purchasing djembe drums will be addressed in this article.
What is a Djembe Drum?
A traditional cialis target=”_blank” href=”http://www.djembedrumshop.com/”>djembe is shaped like a goblet and is covered with the skin of a goat after being carved out of one single log. 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?
Such drums came from the country of Mali in Western Africa. The Mandika people are most associated with this style of drum. Superstition concerning these drums claims buy Baby Powder online 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.
The Mandika said that they got the original djembe from djinn; which was thought to be a mythological beast. This being supposedly showed them how to make the drum and gave them knowledge of its use. This has allowed them to find a spiritual significance in it.
What type of sounds are associated with the Djembe?
Such drums can make many different types of sounds depending on which of the three easy hand movements are used. 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 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 tone and slap are made with the same hand movement but the latter has the fingers bounce off the drum’s head to create a sharper, ringing sound. By using a combination of these motions other sounds can be made making this drum very versatile.
Is it possible to tune these drums?
With this type of drum, the tighter it is the better it sounds. The best way to fix a drum that sounds flat is to tighten up the loose supporting stings until the drum sounds clear. Remember,stringing a goat skin head drum might be quite a challenge because of the large number of strings involved.
This type of drum is very simple to use and compliments other instruments very well. The versatility of the djembe makes it a good choice for anyone who is willing to give it a try.
Mail this post