So, you like the idea of drumming, but where do you start and what kind of drum should you get? A million drums are out there from all over the world. Small ones, big ones, drums that are played in your lap, in your hand, on the floor, on the side, with a mallet, without a mallet. The list goes on and on.
I’ve reduced the list down to three of my favorites: the Djembe (West African), the Doumbek (Middle Eastern), and the Tubano (Remo invention). Watch the video to hear how they sound and see them in action.
The YouTube link follows: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6Axd7U45NQ
The following comparison shows some main differences. Keep in mind that all drums sound different depending upon the type of head, the size, and the materials used. Plus, drums change their sound and tone as you play them over time. Drum maintenance, cleaning, and tuning is required of most drums as time goes by.
Remo Djembe
Tone: Versatile, Low and deep to round and full
Weight: Medium
Portability: Fairly easy
Authentic OR Synthetic
Tuning: Key, Pre, Rope
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Doumbek
Tone: Very responsive head produces crisp sound
Weight: Light
Portability: Very easy
Authentic OR Synthetic
Tuning: Key, Pre, Internal, External
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Remo Tubano
Tone: Deep and low, but more muted tone than djembe or doumbek
Weight: Heavy
Portability: Less easy
Only Synthetic
Tuning: Key, Pre
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Special thanks to Michelle Erfurt for inquiring about and inspiring this topic.
Really useful post Kat. I’ll share it on my Facebook page!
Anna
Thanks for spreading the word, Anna! I hope this is useful to you and your friends.
This is exactly what I needed to see! How many times have I said to you, “I wish I played drums but I don’t know where to start!”
Thank you thank you Kat!
Great, Erin! I’m so glad that you can now start playing drums! Just do it