Drum — Universal Percussion
The drum, in its many forms across the world, remains one of the most universal percussion instruments: a skin stretched over a frame or shell, struck by hand or stick to mark the rhythm.
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What it is
The drum broadly refers to any percussion instrument made of one or more skins stretched over a frame, shell or body, struck by hand, stick or mallet. This family covers an immense variety of shapes across cultures and uses: frame drums, two-headed drums, and ensemble or school drums.
Origins and history
Among the very first instruments invented by humankind, the drum appears in countless forms across nearly every culture on earth, from ritual drums in Africa to European military drums, through to orchestral and ensemble drums used today in music education and many contemporary styles.
Manufacturing and materials
The frame or shell is usually wood (plywood or solid wood) or sometimes metal for ensemble models, with the skin made of synthetic material (more stable against climate changes) or natural hide, depending on the model and intended use.
| Instrument type | Membranophone percussion |
|---|---|
| Skin | Synthetic or natural depending on the model |
| Playing technique | By hand, stick or mallet depending on the type |
| Level | Very accessible, suited for music education |
How to choose the right one
- Intended use: music education, school ensembles, or regular rhythmic practice call for different models.
- Size and portability: a compact drum suits frequent transport (classes, workshops); a larger model offers more projection.
- Skin type: a synthetic head needs less upkeep against climate changes than a natural one.
- Complementary instruments: for a specifically Moroccan repertoire, see our dedicated bendir, derbouka and taarija pages.
How it's played
The drum is played by hand, stick or mallet depending on the model, often held against the body or placed on a stand, to mark rhythm solo, in ensemble, or accompanying other instruments.
Care and maintenance
Keep the drum away from excessive humidity and direct impacts on the skin. Slightly loosen a natural skin during extended storage to relieve unnecessary tension on the frame.
A generic term; for specific Moroccan traditional percussion, see our bendir, derbouka and taarija pages.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a generic drum and a Moroccan bendir?+
The bendir is a specific type of Moroccan frame drum, with characteristic internal snare strings; the term "drum" here covers a wider, more universal family of skin instruments.
Is a drum suitable for a child starting music?+
Yes, it's an excellent way to introduce rhythm, easy to access and requiring no prior musical training.
Can a drum be played alongside other Moroccan percussion?+
Yes, it blends well in an ensemble with bendir, derbouka or qraqeb depending on the musical context you're after.
