Different Types of Hand Drums and Percussion Instruments

Hand drums, the oldest musical instruments in the world, with their origins dating back at least 6,000 years, are an integral part of most world music traditions. They have been integral to various cultures globally, serving not only as musical instruments but also as tools for communication and ritualistic practices. 

And do you know, percussion instruments like drums were used to transmit messages over long distances. 

Often, they played a significant role in military settings during medieval and Renaissance Europe, where snare drums were used to send coded instructions to soldiers.

The world of these instruments are quite fascinating.

And today, this article delves into the world of hand drums and percussion instruments, what they are, how they are made, the wide variety of styles available, and their varied uses in music across cultural boundaries.

What are Hand Drums and Their Role in Music

Hand drums are a diverse category of percussion instruments that are primarily played with the hands rather than with sticks or mallets. They are an essential component of music and have been used for centuries all over the world. These adaptable instruments, which are distinguished by their varied sounds and dependence on the hands to produce sound, have been a part of musical traditions since before written history and remain so to this day. 

Historical Significance and Cultural Diversity

Hand drums, originating from wood and goat skin, are significant in African, South American, and Middle Eastern musical traditions, serving as communication tools, elements of religious practices, and a symbol of unique cultural identity.

In many cultures, hand drums are considered sacred objects that connect individuals to their spiritual heritage. For instance, in African traditions, drumming is seen as a way to communicate with ancestors and gods. 

Similarly, in Hinduism, the Damaruka, a type of hand drum, symbolizes joy and celebration.

Types of Hand Drums and Percussion Instruments

Hand drums and percussion instruments are a diverse group of instruments used in various musical genres around the world. Here are some of the most common types in a quick view:

Here are more details about the specific drums:

Frame Drums

Frame drums are a versatile and ancient type of percussion instrument characterized by their shallow, cylindrical frames with a single drumhead stretched across one open end. These instruments have a rich history and cultural significance across various regions of the world.

Below are some of the popular Frame drums:

Goblet Drums

Goblet drums are a type of percussion instrument characterized by their unique goblet-shaped body and single drumhead. They are widely used in various musical traditions across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. Here’s a detailed overview of goblet drums. 

Cylindrical Drums

Cylindrical drums are a specific category of percussion instruments characterized by their straight-sided, cylindrical shape and typically two drumheads. They are widely used in various musical traditions around the world, particularly in regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeastern Europe. 

Here’s a breakdown of specific cylindrical drums.

The tabla, a key percussion instrument in Hindustani classical music, serves multiple roles, including rhythmic foundation, accompaniment, solo performances, and global fusion, requiring intricate finger and hand techniques.

Tongue and Steel Drums

Tongue drums, also known as steel tongue drums, tank drums, or hank drums, are a type of percussion instrument that produce sound through slits or "tongues" cut into the body of the drum. They belong to the idiophone family, meaning their sound is generated by the material itself without the need for strings or membranes.

Here’s a breakdown of specific hank drums.

Classification of Hand Drums by Playing Technique and Construction Material

With a rich history that dates back to ancient times, drums are a large and diversified family of percussion instruments. Two primary criteria are used to classify them:

Types of Hand Drums by Playing Technique:

Hand drums can be categorized based on their playing techniques, which influence how they produce sound and the styles of music they are suited for. 

Here’s an overview of different types of hand drums organized by playing technique.

• Frame Drums: Frame drums, ranging from large bodhráns to tambourines, have a single head stretched over a wooden or metal frame, played by striking it with hands or sticks.
• Goblet Drums: Goblet drums, with a goblet-shaped body and head attached, are widely played globally, with popular instruments like the djembe and darbuka in West Africa and the Middle East.
• Barrel Drums: Barrel drums, such as dhol in India and congas in Cuba, have cylindrical bodies with heads on both ends, played by striking them with hands or sticks.
• Box Drums: Sound is produced by striking the side of a box, constructed so that one side of the box is resonant, sometimes with snares, and producing both bass and treble sounds. The primary example of this is cajon. 
• Clay Pot Drum: Some instruments including the Indian Ghatam and Middle Eastern Udu are built of clay and produce high and low resonant sounds by striking with various techniques. The instruments have a characteristic scooping “Ghu” sound produced by striking over the instrument open and then removing the hand allowing air to escape.
• Variable Pitch Drums: Drums like the African “Talking Drum” and Indian Tabla allow the musician to gradually change the pitch of the instrument giving the drum a voice and almost melodic quality

Types of Hand Drums by Construction Material:

Hand drums can be categorized based on the materials used in their construction. The choice of material significantly impacts the drum's sound quality, tonal characteristics, and overall durability. Here’s an overview of different types of hand drums classified by construction material:

• Shell: The drum's body can be made from wood (e.g., cajon, Djembe and most traditional drums), metal (e.g., dhol), ceramic (e.g. Ghatam - India and Udu - Middle Eastern,), and now there are versions of all these instruments made of plastic, synthetic and composite materials.
• Head: Traditionally, animal skin (goat, cow, etc.) was used for the drumhead. Today, synthetic materials like Mylar are popular alternatives due to their durability and weather resistance.

Special Classifications: Hand Drums Based on Sound Production

Hand drums can be classified based on sound production into two main categories: membranophones and idiophones. This classification highlights how the sound is generated in these instruments.

• Membranophones: These are the most common type of hand drum, with a head (membrane) stretched across a shell. Examples include djembe, cajon, and tambourine.
• Idiophones (without membranes): These drums produce sound from the vibration of the body itself. Examples include ghatam (clay pot drum) and log drum.

Impact of Materials on Sound Quality of Percussion Instruments

The impact of materials on the sound quality of percussion instruments is a crucial aspect of their design and performance. Different materials can significantly influence the tonal characteristics, resonance, and overall sound production of these instruments.

Shell Material:

• Wood: Wood types and thickness influence tones, with hardwoods produce brighter sounds. Softer woods like balsa produce deeper, bassier tones.
• Gourd: Gourds, due to their natural, lightweight structure, provide a warm, deep, and resonant sound.
• Pottery: Clay drums produce bright, cutting tones with good projection.

Drumhead:

• Natural Skin (Cowhide, Goat Skin): These heads produce warm, resonant tones with a wide dynamic range, but are sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, necessitating tuning adjustments.
• Synthetic Heads: These heads provide consistent sound, require less maintenance, and have a brighter, sharper tone with less warmth compared to natural heads.

Natural vs. Synthetic Drumheads

Here's a table summarizing the pros and cons of each type of drumhead:

How to Choose a Hand Drum

Choosing a hand drum involves several important considerations that can enhance your playing experience and ensure the instrument meets your musical needs. When selecting a hand drum, consider the musical style you want to play and your personal preferences. 

Here is a 7 step guide that might help you in the process of selecting a right hand drum  

1. Determine Your Musical Interests: Different hand drums are suited for various musical styles. Consider what genres you are interested in, such as folk, Latin, African, or Middle Eastern music. This will help narrow down your options to drums that complement those styles.
2. Consider Your Skill Level: If you are new to drumming, look for instruments that are user-friendly and forgiving for learning basic techniques. More complex drums may be better suited for intermediate or advanced players.
3. Define Your Budget: Hand drums come in a wide range of prices. Set a budget that balances quality with affordability—consider looking for used instruments or starter kits if you're on a tighter budget.
4. Evaluate Size and Portability: Think about where you will be playing the drum. If portability is essential (e.g., for travel or outdoor performances), a smaller drum may be more suitable. Larger drums often provide deeper tones but can be cumbersome to transport.

1. Test Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try out different hand drums before making a purchase. This allows you to assess the feel, sound, and comfort of the drum, ensuring it aligns with your preferences.
2. Seek Guidance from Experts: Talk to musicians or drum enthusiasts who can provide insights based on their experiences with different hand drums. They can offer valuable recommendations tailored to your needs.
3. Research and Read Reviews: Explore reviews and forums to gather information about specific hand drums. Learning about others' experiences can provide insights into durability, sound quality, and overall satisfaction with various models.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

The cultural and spiritual significance of hand drums stems from their central place in rituals, ceremonies, and the oral traditions of various cultures around the world.

Drums as tools for communication and ritual

Hand drums have been crucial for centuries in communication, ritual, and healing practices, serving as long-distance messaging, coded language, social organization, and promoting physical or emotional well-being.

Spiritual and representational purposes across cultures

Hand drums, deeply rooted in various cultures, serve as spiritual connections, trance states, and symbols of social status, adding energy and joy to rituals, ceremonies, and celebrations.

Hand drumming in community and healing practices

Hand drumming, a cultural practice, promotes community building, cultural preservation, social interaction, and healing, fostering connection, cultural heritage, emotional release, physical benefits, mindfulness, and spiritual connection.

Recommended Drums for Beginners

Acoustic and electronic drum sets are suitable for beginners, offering a traditional playing experience with a wider range of sounds but requiring tuning and maintenance.

Trying different drums to find the perfect match

Drummers choose from various sets based on shell material, size, cylinder selection, and hardware, observing genres, playing styles, and tuning techniques for the perfect setup.

Maintenance and Care

Protecting the drum from environmental damage: Store drums in cool, dry places, avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, avoid moisture, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent warping and cracking of the wood.

Tuning and skin replacement for optimal sound: Hand drums use lugs and tension rods for tuning, with drum keys adjusting pitch. Online resources and videos guide tuning. Drumheads wear out, and replacing them is simple, depending on the type. Resources are available online and in stores.

Cleaning and storing hand drums safely: To maintain a drum, wipe it down with a damp cloth after playing, apply a light coat of teak or linseed oil every few months to preserve the wood, and store it in a padded case or bag to protect it from dust and bumps.

Conclusion

Hand drums and percussion instruments are a fascinating exploration of rhythm, tradition, and self-expression. These instruments transcend cultures and continents, serving as powerful tools for communication, ritual, and community building. 

The Sound Artist offers a chance to explore this vast world of percussion, offering expertise to find the perfect hand drum to ignite your creative spark and explore the universal language of rhythm. Discover the vibrant sounds of steel pans and clay pot drums.