African Djembe Drum

This Djembe drum is one of the most popular musical instruments in west Africa

These goblet shaped drums have been played for over 900 years. It’s the goblet shape of the drum which makes the distinctive tone.

It is made from a single piece of tree trunk from the lembe tree. The head of the drum is made from goat skin and the tension of the skin can be changed by using the ropes around the edge of the drum. This will change the pitch of the drum.

To play this drum, you need to put the drum in between your legs, and it is played with your hands.

“Djembe” means come together. One of the things this drum was used for was storytelling and passing on important historical, religious and cultural information to future generations through the art of storytelling and music.

This video is a great introduction to the history of the djembe drum and how it was used.

Here is a video telling the story of the first djembe.

SMSC – Developing self knowledge and self esteem

Acquire an appreciation and respect for their own and other cultures

Draw and label the certain parts of the drum

Can they create their own drum from recycled materials, balloons and elastic bands?

Can the class make up their own drum beat? They could use their own drum or even their recycled drums they have created to beat a whole class rhythm.

This object can be booked through Tees Valley Museums

Contact Jenny Wilkie on Jenny.Wilkie@stockton.gov.uk