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Djembe

The document provides an overview of the origins and characteristics of the West African djembe drum. It discusses that the djembe likely originated less than 1,000 years ago in Mali by the Mandinka blacksmiths, and was spread by West African tribes for religious and ceremonial purposes. The djembe produces a versatile range of tones through striking different areas of the drumhead, and is tuned by the surrounding ropes. Players are often storytellers who lead responsive audiences in dancing, singing and other percussion during performances.

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157 views6 pages

Djembe

The document provides an overview of the origins and characteristics of the West African djembe drum. It discusses that the djembe likely originated less than 1,000 years ago in Mali by the Mandinka blacksmiths, and was spread by West African tribes for religious and ceremonial purposes. The djembe produces a versatile range of tones through striking different areas of the drumhead, and is tuned by the surrounding ropes. Players are often storytellers who lead responsive audiences in dancing, singing and other percussion during performances.

Uploaded by

api-310304667
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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You are on page 1/ 6

The West African

Djembe
BY: MEGAN S TROSNIDER

CHAPTER 1

Origins
The history of the Djembes creation is often a de-

bated topic. Its creation most likely took place in


West Africa in Mali less then a 1,000 years ago. However, there is not an exact note of when or who came
up with the instrument. African history was often told
orally, so over hundreds of years stories change and
different perspectives are told. One of the most
widely spread agreements, though, is that blacksmiths
of the Mandinka were the drums creators.
Created from simple raw materials such as wood,
animal skin, and rope, this instrument was spread easily across West African tribes. Its association with religious and life ceremonies was key, as well. This drum
was, and still is, vital to everyday life in many communities. Players are held in very high regard, but unfortunately, it is still very uncommon for women to be
able to play djembe.
1

Players of the this drum are often referred to as storytellers and they are led by the djembe master. During the playing ceremony, non-players are often dancing, clapping, singing, or even playing other percussion instruments. It is very unusual and rare for this
drum to be performed in front of a non-responsive
audience.
Baby Naming Ceremony in Mali

CHAPTER 2

Sound
For such a seemingly simple instrument, the djembe
is extremely versatile in sound production. This is especially true when it is the correct players hands.
Even for its size it has the ability to be very loud and
resonant. The tones it produces can vary, but the basic ones are a bass sound made by hitting the middle
of the drum, while higher pitches are made by striking the edge. The drum is also tuned by the ropes surrounding the upper part of the djembe, below the
head. Rattles and beads can also be added to the
drum for both musical and aesthetic purposes.Re

Djembekan
by Ibrahima
Camara

Review Questions
1.) Where did the Djembe most likely originate?
a. Egypt
b. Kenya
c. Mali

2.) What is most often used in creating the drum?


a. Wood
b. Stone
c. Glass

3.) What are some players of the Djembe often called?


a. Storytellers
b. Fortunetellers
c. Preachers

4.) How is the Djembe tuned?


a. Tightening the head
b. It cant be tuned
c. Tightening the ropes
5

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