The bongo (often referred to in plural as bongos or bongas) is a percussion instrument of African origin, consisting of two drums of different sizes placed next to each other, played directly with the hands. The bongo is used in Latin music, especially in Cuban music, where it has developed a particular form and technique....
The cajón is a fascinating musical instrument rooted in the musical tradition of Latin America. With its simple yet powerful form, the cajón has become an essential element in many musical performances, adding an engaging rhythm and unique sonic richness. In this article, we will delve into the history, characteristics, and sound of the cajón,...
The vibraphone is a unique and fascinating musical instrument capable of creating a warm and enveloping sound that captures the attention of anyone who listens to it. Its history is quite interesting, as it was invented in 1921 by an American mechanical engineer named Henry Schluter. His original intention was to modify and elevate a...
The djembe is a musical instrument originating from West Africa that has conquered the entire world in recent decades. With its characteristic pear shape and skin stretched over a wooden frame, it represents a versatile and powerful percussion instrument that can be played in many different ways. But what makes the djembe so special? First...
Arriving in Europe with the Crusades, the timpani is a particular type of drum consisting of a hemispherical bowl-shaped body with a membrane stretched over it, which is struck with two beaters. Unlike most membranophones, the timpani has a fixed pitch and can be tuned to specific pitches using special pedals. Capable of both rhythmic...
Throughout history, musical instruments have undergone significant changes, not only in form and sound but also in their ability to integrate into specific countries. Among the most interesting instruments that have gained considerable popularity in recent years is the kazoo. Not everyone knows the origins and characteristics of this peculiar musical instrument, which will be...
In slave-holding America, it was common to find in the quarters of any plantation’s slaves an object made of wood or gourd, hollowed out and fitted with metal tines on its surface: the kalimba (or malinba). This rudimentary percussion musical instrument was played by slaves during their few moments of leisure or, at the landowner’s...
India has long been synonymous with exoticism, spirituality, and mystery. More a continent than a nation, it is home to over a billion people with customs, religions, artistic expressions, dances, and music that vary widely from north to south, east to west. To Western eyes, it retains an aura of the arcane, and even in...
The snare drum is a type of drum often used as the main component of a drum kit. Typically, drummers position it to their left, or to their right if they are left-handed. The snare drum is widely used in orchestral and band contexts. The sound produced by this instrument varies depending on the materials,...
The appearance of the drum set is directly linked to the emergence of jazz, placing us in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century. In reality, the various elements of this instrument do not originate from this country, as the bass drum and snare drum come from Europe, cymbals from Turkey and...
