Thursday 2 June 2011

Exotic Drums Are Keeping 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.

Macaque monkeys have been using this deep sound to create an illusion of dominance. Early tribes of humans would use the sound to signal members from far away when an attack was imminent. They also would use these sounds to produce energetic dance moves. Though a basic sound, the beat has produced emotions throughout the history.

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.

Music and dance have been created using the beat produced. Native dances where often very high energy. Modern dance and rock and roll have a close tie to the beat that is created by the drummer. Considered the foundation of music, this sound gives people something to tap their feet to. Rock and roll gave the drummer a new stage to perform on by pushing them to prominence.

The instrument is created from wood with a membrane stretched over one side. There are varying styles with one or two membranes and other parts attached that help to create different sounds. Plywood is the most common type used for construction. Recently though, several manufacturers are turning towards more exotic woods to produce richer sounds that cannot be achieved with the plywood.

They are called percussion instruments because the sound is delivered by hitting the device. This percussive sound is controlled by the tightness of the membrane, strength of the strike, and other attachments. For instance, a snare is struck by a wooden stick. Others may have padding on the end to provide a deeper, muted sound.

Exotic drums are very popular in many styles. The modern musician uses them to keep the beat and provide entertainment. Tribes may use them in religious dances. Animals use the sound instinctively to exert their dominance in their world.

exotic drums




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