World of Tongue Drums: A Guide by SoundArtist

Dive into the captivating realm of tongue drums – enchanting instruments that have gracefully found their place in the world of music. Unlike conventional drums, these percussion wonders are a contemporary creation, originating in the late 2000s. 

Crafted from propane cylinders or wood, they boast a distinctive UFO-like appearance, producing soothing sounds that resonate with ease. SoundArtist welcomes you to explore the ultimate guide to tongue drums and their serene melodies.

What Are Tongue Drums?

Tongue drums, also known as steel tongue drums, tank drums, or hank drums, belong to the idiophone family of percussion instruments. Idiophones produce sound through their own vibrations, making tongue drums a unique addition to this musical category. 

Inspired by instruments like the hang drum and slit drum, tongue drums have carved a niche for themselves, gaining popularity in meditation music, yoga sessions, and sound therapy. These charming instruments, with their UFO-like appearance, are accessible to individuals of all ages and can be enjoyed in various settings, from therapy offices to classrooms and meditation sessions.

History Of Tongue Drums:

Rooted in the ancient history of idiophones, tongue drums share ancestry with slit drums crafted by our ancestors across Africa, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. The evolution of these instruments led to the modern steel tongue drums we know today. 

While some tongue drums are meticulously handcrafted from wood, the majority in the market are composed of steel or metal alloys. The ingenious transformation of a 20-pound propane tank by Dennis Havlena in 2007 marked the birth of the tongue drum, or as he named it, the "Hank Drum." This instrument, inspired by the tone layout of a hang drum, provided a more accessible and portable alternative to its rare and expensive counterpart.

Anatomy and Melodic Magic Of Tongue Drums:

Tongue drums derive their name from the distinctive "tongues" cut into the bottom of the drum, each tuned to a specific note. These tongues act like strings on a guitar or keys on a piano, determining the rhythm and pitch of the instrument. 

The magic unfolds as players strike the tongues with fingers, hands, or a mallet, creating harmonious chords and melodic compositions. The beauty lies in the simplicity, allowing even those with minimal musical experience to produce captivating tunes.

Harmony of Scales Of Tongue Drums:

The ease of playing tongue drums is attributed to the common use of the pentatonic scale, a musical scale with five notes per octave. This scale ensures that every note blends seamlessly, enabling anyone to create pleasing melodies without fear of hitting a wrong note. 

Beyond the pentatonic scale, tongue drums may be tuned to various scales such as diatonic, chromatic, minor or major scales, and Akebono. Each scale offers a unique tonal palette, enriching the instrument's versatility without complicating its playability.

Sounds of Serenity Of Tongue Drums:

Tongue drums, often praised as instruments "so easy anyone can play," owe their user-friendly nature to the inherent harmony of the pentatonic scale. Whether tuned to 432 Hz, 440 Hz, or 444 Hz, these drums resonate with frequencies that evoke calmness, grounding, or uplifting sensations. 

The choice of pitch depends on personal preference and the intended use, whether for personal meditation, collaborative musical performances, or therapeutic sessions.

Variety in Construction Of Tongue Drums:

Diversity arises in the construction of tongue drums, offering players choices between metal, steel, alloy steel, or wood. Metal drums, often coated for corrosion resistance, provide customisation options with various colours and etched designs. 

On the other hand, wooden tongue drums boast a natural appearance and rectangular box-like shape. Crafted from different woods like red elm, spruce, or mahogany, they exude a unique charm. Whether metal or wood, each drum contributes to the symphony of beautiful sounds.

Versatile Applications Of Tongue Drums:

The versatility of tongue drums extends to various applications, making them indispensable in different settings. Their calming and peaceful notes have positioned them as wellness instruments, perfect for meditation, yoga, and sound therapy. Incorporating tongue drums into meditation sessions offers a restorative experience, synchronizing breath with melodic rhythms. 

These instruments seamlessly complement yoga practices, enhancing mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Chakra cleansing, a popular practice, involves playing specific notes associated with each chakra, promoting balance and harmony within the body.

Harmony in Therapy and Music Creation Of Tongue Drums:

Tongue drums find their place in the field of music therapy, providing both receptive and active therapeutic benefits. In receptive music therapy, the soothing tones of the tongue drum facilitate relaxation and stress reduction. Active music therapy involves clients actively playing the drum, promoting coordination, self-expression, and confidence.

These instruments are particularly beneficial for individuals with special needs, offering a sensory-friendly experience. Additionally, tongue drums serve as creative tools for musicians, enabling the exploration of new beats, melodies, and musical compositions in friendly jam sessions or drum circles.

Where to Find Tongue Drums?

Embarking on your tongue drum journey requires access to these enchanting instruments. Local music stores, especially those specializing in percussion instruments, may offer a selection of tongue drums. Alternatively, connecting with artisans or craftsmen who create and sell tongue drums online allows one to explore unique, handcrafted options. 

Online platforms also offer a convenient way to purchase tongue drums, providing sound clips and detailed descriptions to aid in informed decision-making. For those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality option, 

Choosing the Perfect Tongue Drums:

Selecting the right tongue drum involves considering crucial factors that influence the instrument's feel and resonance. The scale, determining the emotional tone, ranges from major scales with uplifting vibes to minor/sharp scales with darker undertones. 

The Akebono scale, originating from Japan, offers a meditative and zen-like quality. For those seeking versatility, tuneable tongue drums with adjustable scales provide the freedom to explore multiple tonal dimensions.

Pitch selection, whether 432 Hz for calming notes, 440 Hz for standard tuning, or 444 Hz for uplifting tones, depends on personal preferences and musical collaborations. Aesthetic choices, such as color, patina, and etched designs, add a visual dimension to the playing experience. The size of the drum, ranging from 5 to 20 inches in diameter, and weight considerations are essential, especially for beginners or those purchasing for children.

Care for Your Musical Companion Tongue Drums:

Caring for your tongue drum is a straightforward endeavor, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. When playing, it's advisable to use appropriate force, whether with your palm, fingers, or a mallet. 

Precision in wrist movement, avoiding excessive force, and focusing on specific areas of the tongue drum contribute to sustained durability. While playing, it's recommended to refrain from wearing rings or bracelets to prevent any potential damage.

When not in use, storing your tongue drum in a safe, dry indoor location is imperative. Exposure to the elements, including rain or direct sunlight, can compromise the quality of the instrument. 

Transporting your tongue drum is made safer by using a padded protective carrying case, preventing scratches and accidental drops. Regular maintenance involves simple dusting with a soft or microfiber cloth to keep the instrument in pristine condition.

Mastering the Art of Playing the Tongue Drums:

Tongue drums offer a versatile canvas for musicians to express themselves, whether using hands or mallets. The choice between hands and mallets comes with distinct characteristics – hands providing a deeper connection to the drum, while mallets amplify the sound and offer a clearer, resonant quality. Beginners can ease into the world of tongue drumming through engaging exercises:

• Scale Mastery: Play the entire scale, ascending and descending, to familiarize yourself with the range of notes.
• Circular Exploration: Experiment by playing all notes in a circular order, allowing your creativity to flow freely.
• Positional Play: Focus on specific areas of the drum, such as the left or right side, top or bottom, to create varied sounds.
• Pattern and Chord Creation: Develop patterns, play chords, and explore different combinations to understand the instrument's potential.
• Chord Progressions: Discover harmonious combinations by playing chords and transitioning between them.

As proficiency grows, advanced techniques can be explored, such as playing with both hands and mallets simultaneously, dampening notes for unique effects, and experimenting with different mallet materials. The journey of learning to play the tongue drum is both gratifying and liberating, offering a canvas for self-expression and musical exploration.

Conclusion: Your Musical Odyssey Begins

In the world of tongue drums, SoundArtist invites you to a musical odyssey. These captivating instruments, with their soothing tones and rhythmic versatility, beckon musicians of all levels. 

From the ancient roots of idiophones to the modern resonance of tongue drums, the journey is filled with discovery and creativity. Whether seeking inner peace through meditation, embracing the therapeutic benefits of music, or simply enjoying the joy of playing, the tongue drum is a companion that resonates with the soul. Explore, experiment, and let the melodies of the tongue drum become a soundtrack to your musical journey. Happy drumming!

SoundArtist recommends exploring the beautiful tongue drum available here.