Ugandan Drums (Djembe)

Drums are perhaps the most popular musical instruments in Uganda. Because of the continental predominance of drums, it is hard to trace the origins of each type of drum. The commonest method of making drums is to make a cavity in a tree-trunk after it has been cut to the size required by the drum-maker. The wood is selected form material which is not susceptible to boring insects or easy rotting. The relatively heavy skins of cows, goats and other animals are used to make small, medium size and big drums which are played using wooden sticks or hands. These drums are usually covered on both ends. Straps hold the membrane to the required pitch.

• Materials : Wood, animal skin
• Size : Big