Djembe - Out Of Captivity

(larger image)		Description: The diamond-shaped Adinkra symbol known as Epa surrounds this handsome djembe drum. Highly regarded in Ghana, this rigid motif means "captivity and slavery." George Nyampong carves the piece from tweneboa wood, adding color with mansion polish. The djembe originated in Benin, where it is used during voodoo rites, and has been introduced into neighboring countries. It is indispensable in contemporary reggae. The goatskin head is affixed by iron rings held in place by macramé cords. Product item: 92007 Price:  $272.95 Shipping Weight: 11.7 pounds Dimensions: 14.2" W x 24.8" H x 14.2" D

To play, sit on the edge of a chair with ankles crossed, the top of the drum fitting neatly between the knees as the base of the drum rests behind the heels. This way the drum is angled away from the player. Sitting up straight with hands resting on the drum's playing surface, the wrists should become flat and this is the position to create the standard djembe sounds. Djembes produce three basic sounds: bass, tone, and slap.

BASS: With the hand flat and fingers together, place the hand at the dimension of two fists above the center of the playing surface. Allow the hand to strike and bounce back to the original position above the center.
TONE: This is the high-pitched sound produced by striking the top surface nearest the edge with firmly placed fingers.
SLAP: Strike the playing surface's edge first with the heel of the hand, and then allow the fingers to naturally bounce down towards the drum's center.