Arts >> Music >> Live Music

How to Play the Singapore Drums

Mostly made up of djembes and doumbeks, Singapore drums create a wonderful noise that will add the perfect sound to any performance in almost every genre of music. You may recognize Singapore drums at an ethnic drum store, an African dance ceremony or when they are played recreationally with an acoustic guitar. Originating in Africa, djembes are relatively new to Singapore and have quickly become known as one of the most popular Singapore drums.

Things You'll Need

  • Djembe
  • Doumbek
  • Electronic metronome
  • Stool
Show More

Instructions

    • 1
      Stretching your arms will get your arms and hands prepared to move at a faster pace than normal.

      Stretch and loosen your arms to get the blood flowing in your body; make sure that your arms feel loose.

    • 2
      Metronomes assist in playing in rhythm.

      Set the tempo on your electronic metronome to 192; listen to the metronome and get used to its beat.

    • 3

      Sit down on a knee-high stool or any chair. Place the djembe's open bottom on top of the insides of your feet so that there is a couple inches in between the bottom of the djembe and the ground.

    • 4

      Bounce your hand on top of the djembe in sync with the metronome; hit or slap the outside of the djembe with your fingers for a high-pitched sound. Make sure to rebound your hand off the drum to get its full sound. You may also use the palm of your hand, hitting the middle of the drum for a deeper, bass-pitched sound.

    • 5

      Create your own rhythm, staying in sync with the metronome.

+:
+:

Live Music

Related Categories