Talking Drums
Talking drums are a unique type of drum that originate from West Africa. They are called "talking drums" due to the fact that they mimic the inflections and rhythms of human speech.
Talking drums are a unique type of drum that originate from West Africa. They are called "talking drums" due to the fact that they mimic the inflections and rhythms of human speech.
At Gear4music, we offer talking drums that are perfect for beginners and experienced players alike. Our range comes with a full 30-day money-back guarantee and a 3-year warranty.
About Talking Drums
Talking drums - also known as dundun - are a type of African drum that's capable of mimicking the tone and rhythms of human speech. These drums have been used for centuries in West Africa to communicate messages across long distances, and they remain an important part of African culture to this day.
The history of talking drums can be traced back to the early days of African civilisation. The first recorded evidence of these drums comes from the kingdom of Ghana, where they were used as a means of communication between villages and towns. Over time, the use of talking drums spread throughout West Africa, becoming an integral part of local traditions and cultures.
Talking drums are typically made from hollowed-out logs or gourds, with animal skins stretched over the top to create a resonant surface. These skins are typically made from goat or cow hides, which are cured and then stretched tightly over the drum. However, most modern-day talking drums are made from synthetic animal skin. The drums are then decorated with intricate patterns and designs, often using natural dyes and pigments.
To play a talking drum, the musician strikes the drumhead with their hand slightly curved and squeezes the drum shell under the other arm. By varying the pressure and speed of the strokes, the musician is able to create a wide range of tones and rhythms that mimic the nuances of human speech. This allows them to convey complex messages over long distances, even in noisy or crowded environments.
Talking drums remain an important part of local music and culture and are often played during festivals, weddings, and other social events. Despite the introduction of modern communication technologies, the tradition of talking drums continues to thrive, serving as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of West Africa.
FAQs
What are the talking drums called?
Talking drums are known by several other names depending on the specific region of West Africa. For example, in Nigeria, they are also called "gangan" or "iya-ilu". In Ghana, they are called "atumpan" or "ntumpane". Other variations include "tama" in Senegal and "djun-djun" in Mali. Another general term for talking drums is "dundun," which is also frequently used in West Africa.
What are talking drums used for?
Talking drums are primarily used for communication purposes in West African villages and towns. They are capable of imitating the rhythms and tones of human speech, allowing people to send messages over long distances using drumbeats. Talking drums can also be used for musical performances, particularly in traditional African music.
What are the two sounds talking drums can make?
Talking drums can produce two distinctive sounds: the "male" tone and the "female" tone. The male tone is produced by striking the drumhead in the center with a stick, while the female tone is made by striking the edge of the drumhead with a curved stick or mallet.
