African Tribal Drums

African tribal drums are the perfect item to own not only for playing, but also as decoration. In Africa the drum plays a huge part in the culture, and ceremonies that the villages often perform. There are many different varieties of African drums, and they all have a different meaning, and purpose. Whether the drum is to be used for a special event, religious ceremony, or simply for entertainment they are still very much a part of African culture today.

Although one of the most popular African tribal drums is the Djembe there are many other styles to choose from. All of the African drums create different sounds, and are often known as the talking drums of Africa. The range of tone often changes due to the shape, and style of the drum, and by how tight the heads are. Although these African drums are very popular for entertainment value they are also very significant in displaying power, and to honor people.

The Udu African drums are used by the people of Nigeria, and in their native tongue Udu means vessel. As well as being a drum the Udu is also a water carrier, or type of water jug that was played by the women of the villages. The additional hole in the side of the African tribal drums allowed a distinctive noise to be created when played. The low base noise that the Udu creates is fantastic, and has been developed for different musical styles today.

The Darbuka drum is a goblet shaped hand drum that is often used in musical festivals, and celebrations. These African tribal drums have very thin, distinctive drum heads, and create a distinctive crisp sound. This style of African drums are very old, and were originally made from clay, however, today they are often seen in synthetic materials.

The Darbuka is played in a very light motion with quick strokes. It is often placed between the players knees enabling them to use both hands freely.

An Ashiko drum is a very unusual shape that can be found throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The Ashiko is the male version of the Djembe drum. These styles of African drums create three very distinctive tones. When professionally played they sound amazing, and can help to set the mood for a ceremony or festival. The unique cone shape of these African tribal drums helps to propel the sound that they create.

The uniquely named Djun djun drum is the collective name for the African tribal drums developed in the Mande drum ensemble. These African drums range in size, and can be found in very large varieties. Depending on the size and structure of the drum will determine exactly what name the African tribal drums are given. There are two main styles of this drum, and they are often played in very different ways.

Ngoma drums are used by the Bantu speaking people of South Africa, and are used for the percussion of different dances, and special occasions. This style of African tribal drums is used to display authority as well as for a musical instrument. They are made traditionally from wood, and have animal skin covering both ends. Typically you will find them being played in groups of seven to create an amazing sound.

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