Sunday, December 4, 2011

Types of African Drums

There are plentiful types of drums that are used for a variety of reasons. Throughout the African culture, they are used to make music, and from there the possibilities are endless. Rather it be for a celebration, a religious ceremony, or even to symbolize death, drums were not just for mere entertainment, they had a strong connection with the people of the culture

Some of the drums include:
1. The Djembe, which can be noted as one of the oldest drums, was used during the 13th century and from there on, in the Western African area. It was used to create sound for the stories that were being told in the tribes. It was also used for special and event sacred events. This sacred type drum is made out of wood, and covered in goatskin.




2. The talking drum, which is a drum that is worn across your body. This drum, had a difference purpose, which was to not only to provide sound and music, but also at times, was used to send messages across the lands. The talking drum is made out of wood, with a strap, most likely made out of hide in the earlier years, and leather in the more recent.
3. The bata drums are a set of three drums, that come from Nigeria, and come from the time period in which the slaves from Africa, were brought to Cuba. The signature drums, are extremely noticeable because they are not only 9n a triple set, but also have two sides, or heads as they are traditionally called. These drums, are used in religious settings as well as in culture settings. One thing that is interesting about them is you can either use your hands, as in most African drums, or use sticks.
This is an example of how the drums can be used!

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