Drums

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Step up to the drum and start tapping it rhythmically with your hand. Try changing the dynamics and tempo of your playing – can you play quietly, slowly, quickly, or loudly? What sound does the center of the drum produce, and what tones can you hear when you strike the edges of the instrument? Use both hands alternately. Be careful not to hit the drum’s edge with your wrists. Think about other places where you could tap out a rhythm without using an instrument.

The drums you see here consist of a single membrane. These instruments belong to the group of membranophones, which are percussion instruments that produce sound through a vibrating membrane. The membrane is stretched over a cylindrical body that also acts as the instrument’s resonating chamber. Some of the most popular membranophones include kettledrums, drums, tambourines, and frame drums.

The drum dates back to the Neolithic period and is one of the oldest musical instruments in the world. Its purpose was not only musical. In Africa, drums were also used to communicate over long distances. They were important during religious ceremonies and were used in the military as a psychological tool to intimidate opponents.

HOW DOES IT SUPPORT CHILD DEVELOPMENT?

Drums are ideal instruments for beginning musical exploration. They allow children to channel their energy creatively while developing motor coordination, concentration, and listening skills. Playing on musical playground instruments is also a great way to discover musical abilities and can inspire children to continue learning how to play instruments.

Drumming is one of the most popular forms of making music. It effectively stimulates a sense of rhythm and tempo while bringing a great deal of joy.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

► Drums can be played using the whole hands, fingertips, or special drumsticks. Depending on the technique used, the sound will change. Caregivers or parents can show children basic rhythms or play together with them.

► Singing and trying to synchronize the rhythm with the melody of a song can also be a fun activity.

► Children can easily create their own small drums using simple materials such as metal cans (as the drum body) and balloons (as the membrane).