There are drums from all over the world, and each one has its own cultural background and sound. Not only can learning about different types of drums help you get better at music, but it can also help you learn more about different cultures. In 2024, this blog will show you eight different kinds of drums that you can try.
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1. Djembe (West Africa)
The Djembe is a drum from West Africa. It has a goblet shape and is made from a single piece of wood. The drumhead is usually made from goat skin. It is played with the bare hands.
By striking different parts of the drumhead, you can create high, low, and mid-range tones. It’s popular in traditional ceremonies and dances. The Djembe is also used in modern music.
2. Taiko (Japan)
These drums are large and played with wooden sticks called bachi. There are different types of Taiko drums, but the most common is the nagado-daiko.
Taiko drumming involves energetic and synchronised movements. Performers often wear traditional clothing and move in choreographed patterns.
The sound of Taiko is powerful and resonant. Taiko drumming is used in festivals, religious ceremonies, and concerts.
3. Conga (Cuba)
Playing the Conga drum with your hands is done on a tall, thin drum. Most congas are made of fibreglass or wood.
Congas come in different sizes, each producing different tones. They are often played in groups, creating rich, layered rhythms. Conga drums are a key part of Latin music, especially in genres like salsa and rumba.
4. Bodhrán (Ireland)
Originally from Ireland, the Bodhrán is a drum. It is a round, shallow drum with a goat skin head. For playing the drum, you use a tipper or beater, which is a wooden stick. You can use your hands too.
With one hand, the player holds the drum, and with the other, they press against the drumhead to change the pitch.
5. Tabla (India)
The Tabla is a drum from India. It consists of two small drums: the dayan and the bayan. The dayan is played with the right hand and produces high-pitched sounds. On the other hand, the bayan is played with the left hand and produces bass sounds.
Aside from that, the drumheads are made from goat or cow skin and have a black spot in the center, which helps create a distinct tone. The Tabla is used in classical Indian music and accompanies many traditional instruments.
6. Cajón (Peru)
This is a box drum from Peru called a Cajón. It is made from wood and played by sitting on it and striking the front surface. The Cajón has internal wires or strings that create a snare-like sound. It produces a range of tones, from deep bass to sharp slaps.
The Cajón is used in Afro-Peruvian music and has become popular in many other music genres. It is portable and easy to play, making it a great choice for drummers of all levels. Trying the Cajón can be a fun way to explore percussion.
7. Ashiko (West Africa)
The Ashiko is a drum from West Africa. It has a cone shape and is played with the hands. The drum is made from wood, with a drumhead typically made from goat skin.
Aside from that, the Ashiko produces deep, resonant sounds and is used in traditional African music. It is often played in drum circles and can be used for both solo and group performances. The Ashiko is similar to the Djembe but has its unique sound.
8. Darbuka (Middle East)
From the Middle East comes the Darbuka, a drum. It has a goblet shape and is made from clay, wood, or metal. The drumhead is usually made from goatskin or synthetic materials.
Generally, the Darbuka is played with the hands, using fingers and palms to create different sounds. It produces sharp, clear tones and is used in traditional Middle Eastern music. The Darbuka is also popular in belly dancing music.
Enjoy the Diverse Range of Cultural Drums
Exploring and playing cultural drums is a fantastic way to connect with different musical traditions and rhythms from around the world. Each drum offers a unique experience and a rich cultural heritage to discover.
To delve deeper into the world of percussion and try some of these amazing instruments, visit African Drumming and enjoy the diverse range of cultural drums today!
