Thursday, June 2, 2011

Exotic Drums Keep The Beat

By Rosemarie Harrell


Exotic drums have a history that is long and rich, going back to the original days of animals using hollow logs to create the rhythm. Through history, these instruments have been used in wars, sports events, music, and have even been turned into electronic devices. There are many types and styles that are made for varying occasions.

Originally, the sound was produced by Macaque monkeys to exert their dominance. Humans used them for both celebration and to produce a code that would alert to an attack by other tribes. Through the years, this base beat has had many uses. While it is one of the basic instruments, it is not necessarily easy to play effectively.

In early Chinese history, troops used these instruments to determine the speed at which the troops would march in formation. They developed a serious of codes that is still used today to call out orders. This type of use has been adopted by many militaries over the centuries. There are many pictures of military units with the drummer or drum corps leading the way as they mark time with the steady beat.

The drums are also used to create music and determine the rhythm for dancing. Both native and modern dances have been given their style by the speed of the beat that is produced. Many musicians consider the base sound to be the foundation of a musical score. Rock and roll music styles have pushed the background drummer to the foreground as they developed personal styles.

They are often made from plywood. The thickness of the wood has a direct impact on the sound that is produced. One or two sides will include a stretched membrane that is struck by a mallet or stick to create the base sound. Some enthusiasts have begun building sets out of exotic woods to provide a richer sound quality.

They get their name from the action needed to produce the sound. Drumming, or striking the instrument is how it works. The membrane and any attachments will have an effect on the sound produced. A tighter membrane produces a higher pitch sound. Having a padded mallet produces a muted sound. Striking the membrane with a uncovered stick produces a strong, sharp sound.

Though they are most often seen as the basis for modern music, the exotic drums have a history that reaches back into nature where animals were determined to show their strength. Now, these same sounds are combined with other instruments to provide amazing music. From the beginning to now, the beat can be heard.

exotic drums




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