Unless you are aware of your requirements, browsing for djembe drums to buy is often rather challenging. Different drum sizes, head types, tuning mechanisms and shell composition all play a part in creating the drum's personality. Consider the drum as an extended part of yourself, as another way to communicate your feelings. By studying the buying guide, you will learn a lot about the subject, ensuring that you pick the perfect drum to suit your needs.
Choosing your shell material
Many different shell materials are available for a djembe, in both natural and synthetic varieties. You need to consider what type of environment you will be playing in when you make your decision. If you opt for a natural or wood body material, it has to be one that was specifically treated to prevent rot or bugs in the drum. Use caution when purchasing a traditionally made drum, as this can sometimes be a problem in some parts of the world. The drum's body is generally manufactured out of a type of fiberglass These man-made drums are quite sturdy; they play well and hold up admirably despite poor conditions. There will be a slight variance in the quality of tone, it being less "earthy", however, the projection as you perform with still be satisfactory.
Pickings the head for your drum
Traditionally, a djembe drum head is made out of some type of skin, normally goat hide. They are adequate, especially for traditional drums, but they do need additional maintenance. Natural skin heads have a very rich sound and in a drier environment work very well. But, if the weather is very humid where you live, you probably should choose a man-made drum head. Synthetic heads tend to be made from Mylar, or sometimes a different polyester film. Synthetic heads are designed to mimic the feel of a natural head; these heads are also wonderful for studio work. The synthetic heads are also great in almost any climate and that versatility is really what sets them apart for the casual player.
Deciding which way to tune your drum.
In most cases, manufactured drums are tuned mechanically, using bolts rather than rope. This is a popular design since learning to tune the drum heads and change them is quite easy: all you have to do is unscrew the bolts and take the head off. Extra practice is involved if you choose a rope tuning method for your drum. With this tuning type, you should consult a professional that will help you tune the skin and change it a couple times to help you become comfortable with it. It is important to tune your drum correctly so as not to damage it. A more authentic and unique sound body is created when using traditional rope tuning along with a head that is natural.
Choosing your shell material
Many different shell materials are available for a djembe, in both natural and synthetic varieties. You need to consider what type of environment you will be playing in when you make your decision. If you opt for a natural or wood body material, it has to be one that was specifically treated to prevent rot or bugs in the drum. Use caution when purchasing a traditionally made drum, as this can sometimes be a problem in some parts of the world. The drum's body is generally manufactured out of a type of fiberglass These man-made drums are quite sturdy; they play well and hold up admirably despite poor conditions. There will be a slight variance in the quality of tone, it being less "earthy", however, the projection as you perform with still be satisfactory.
Pickings the head for your drum
Traditionally, a djembe drum head is made out of some type of skin, normally goat hide. They are adequate, especially for traditional drums, but they do need additional maintenance. Natural skin heads have a very rich sound and in a drier environment work very well. But, if the weather is very humid where you live, you probably should choose a man-made drum head. Synthetic heads tend to be made from Mylar, or sometimes a different polyester film. Synthetic heads are designed to mimic the feel of a natural head; these heads are also wonderful for studio work. The synthetic heads are also great in almost any climate and that versatility is really what sets them apart for the casual player.
Deciding which way to tune your drum.
In most cases, manufactured drums are tuned mechanically, using bolts rather than rope. This is a popular design since learning to tune the drum heads and change them is quite easy: all you have to do is unscrew the bolts and take the head off. Extra practice is involved if you choose a rope tuning method for your drum. With this tuning type, you should consult a professional that will help you tune the skin and change it a couple times to help you become comfortable with it. It is important to tune your drum correctly so as not to damage it. A more authentic and unique sound body is created when using traditional rope tuning along with a head that is natural.
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Are you wanting to buy a djembe drum for your child or school music group? The Djembe Drum Shop has a great choice of childrens musical instruments and percussion instruments which are available to order online. Pay a visit to their website at www.djembedrumshop.com.
