Drums – music you have been searching for

The drum is a type of musical instrument of percussion group which produces sound on beating. It consists of a hollow chamber with two membranes on opposite sides and although it is made up of only one membrane. A drumstick is needed for sound production, and some people play it using a hand.

Construction

The shape of the drum is very important because the nature of the sound that is produced depends upon the void space known as resonating chamber inside the instrument. Mainly it is cylindrical in shape the body is made up of metal or wood and for support tension rods are present along the body.

Factors affecting sound

The sound produced depends on the following factors:

• Shape, size and thickness

• Material of the shell

• Drumhead material

• Striking velocity

• Angle

• Drumhead tension

Uses

This is one of the oldest musical instruments used in the world. In many countries, it is regarded as a sacred tool. The main uses are as follows:

• Entertainment: drums are used in music and songs. It has widespread use in festivals also.

• Communication: it is used as a communication tool by various communities of tribal people.

• Socio-political tool: it is used for announcement of political events and used in social events like wedding, marriage, birthday, victory and war.