Djembe Drums - Find Out More About its Interesting Origin

The djembe drum is one of West Africa’s most popular instruments and is growing in popularity all over the world. The nature of this instrument has led to it becoming a popular instrument in schools for getting children interested in music. Learn all about the history of this drum here:

Where the Djembe Originated From

The Djembe drum originally came from West Africa and was an important part of their culture. The djembe was used for creating powerful rhythms and beats which were not only used in ceremonies but also for motivating warriors ready for battle.

This West African drum was used to unite communities and still is today. People also take up the djembe drum for recreational purposes, drumming has become a popular form of entertainment. The traditional instrument is now hugely popular all over the world, not just in Africa.

Why Is It So Popular?

The djembe is an easy drum to learn to play which adds to its popularity. Unlike standard drum kits, the hand-held drum is played by tapping out a rhythm with the hands. The djembe is great for all ages to learn to play.

This type of drum has a unique appeal because if its heritage, interesting sound and the fulfillment which can be achieved through playing. The benefits of playing the djembe drum include: hand to eye coordination, responsibility, musicality and confidence.

Because of the numerous benefits associated with learning the djembe it has become a popular children's musical instrument for school music lessons and groups. This percussion instrument can be used to add rhythm to a school orchestra of performance.

What Are The Different Types of Djembe Drums?

Djembe drums are available in different sizes and designs. The traditional djembes are made from wood and produce an authentic sound, there are also modern fibreglass versions which are very similar but produce a thinner sound. The fibreglass djembe drums are more portable as they are lighter in weight.

Djembe drums also come in a range of sizes.

There are small hand-held djembes which are suitable for children. The larger models of djembe drum are best suited to playing in drumming circles and large orchestras although djembe straps are available to make them portable.

The djembe has a great story behind it, in terms of its construction and the role it has played in different cultures over the years. Through playing this instrument you become involved in the culture surrounding the djembe.