A tongue drum, also sometimes called a hank drum or steel tongue drum, is a musical instrument that creates beautiful sounds with its unique design. It belongs to the percussion family of instruments, meaning it is played by striking or hitting it. But unlike traditional drums, which usually have a stretched membrane or skin, a tongue drum produces sound from metal tongues or cuts on the surface of the instrument. These tongues vibrate when struck, creating different notes.
How Does a Tongue Drum Work?
The way a tongue drum makes sound is quite clever. The metal drum is carefully cut with different sized “tongues”. Each tongue is tuned to a specific musical note. When you tap a tongue with your finger, a mallet or some other kind of beater, it vibrates, and that vibration produces a sound. The size and shape of the tongue, and the way it is cut from the metal, are what make each note different. The drum itself acts as a resonating chamber, amplifying and projecting the sounds. This is why tongue drums have such a warm, clear and resonating tone.
What are Tongue Drums Made Of?
Most tongue drums are made of steel, which gives them a bright and clear sound. The steel is usually treated to prevent it from rusting and to make sure the drum looks nice. The thickness of the steel is also important as it affects the sound. The most common materials are steel and stainless steel, because they are easy to work with and can produce the required quality of sound. The way the tongue is cut is essential and each drum maker or manufacturer has their own method of cutting and tuning these instruments.
Types of Tongue Drums
Tongue drums come in many different sizes, shapes and types. Some are small and easy to carry around, while others are bigger and produce a louder, richer sound. The number of tongues can also vary. Some tongue drums have only a few tongues, which are perfect for playing simple tunes, whilst others have many tongues which means they can create complex melodies and harmonies. Some tongue drums can be made to play specific scales such as pentatonic or diatonic scales, which are very popular because of the soothing and harmonious sounds that can be created.
Playing a Tongue Drum
Playing a tongue drum is considered quite easy, even for beginners. You don’t need to know how to read music to make beautiful sounds. You can use your fingers, mallets or other beaters to gently tap on the tongues and create relaxing music. It is good to use different techniques such as softer or harder strikes, tapping different parts of the tongue, or combining notes to create different musical effects. The best part is experimenting with different rhythms and melodies, allowing you to create your own songs.
Benefits of Playing a Tongue Drum
Playing a tongue drum has several benefits. It is a great way to relax and de-stress, and many people find the sounds incredibly soothing. The rhythmic nature of playing a tongue drum can be meditative and can help with focus and mindfulness. It can also be a fun and creative outlet. Playing an instrument like a tongue drum is a great way to exercise the brain, improve concentration, and develop coordination. For children, it can improve creativity and rhythmic awareness, making it a valuable and enjoyable learning tool.
Why Choose a Tongue Drum?
The tongue drum is a great instrument for many reasons. Its simplicity means it is easy to learn, unlike some other musical instruments that may require lots of study. The instrument is also versatile which means you can play a wide variety of music, from relaxing melodies to complex rhythms. They are also portable, durable and low maintenance which makes them suitable for playing in different settings. The instrument’s pleasing sound and accessibility makes it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced musicians.
Key Takeaway: Tongue drums are a unique musical instrument that is easy to play and has relaxing sounds, making it a great choice for everyone.
Caring For Your Tongue Drum
To keep your tongue drum in good condition, you should treat it with care. Try to keep it in a dry place, avoiding any moisture which could cause the metal to rust. Always make sure your drum is kept clean and free of dust. You can wipe it with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints or any dirt. You may also want to keep your tongue drum in a case when you are not using it, to prevent any scratches or damage. Avoid any hard strikes or impacts as this might damage the tuning of the drum and the delicate metal tongues.
Where to Buy a Tongue Drum
Tongue drums are available from a number of sources. You can find them at many musical instrument shops, both online and in local stores. When buying a tongue drum you may want to consider your budget, the size of the instrument and the type of sound you are hoping to create. You may also want to consider whether you prefer to buy online or at a physical store where you can test and listen to different instruments. Make sure you buy a good quality instrument from a reputable supplier to ensure the longevity and tunefulness of the instrument.
Cost of a Tongue Drum
The cost of a tongue drum can vary considerably depending on its size, the materials used, the number of tongues, and who made it. Generally, smaller drums are less expensive than larger ones. A basic, smaller tongue drum can cost anywhere between £50 and £150, while bigger, more sophisticated drums can cost £300 or more. If you are buying a hand-made drum or one from a well-known maker or brand, you may expect to pay even more.
Key Takeaway: Tongue drums come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials and therefore there is one for every budget.
Tongue Drum Uses
Tongue drums are used for a variety of purposes. They are often used in music therapy because their soothing sound can be very beneficial to people with various types of ailments. They are also used in meditation and mindfulness practices because the rhythmic playing style can help you to relax and focus. You can also use a tongue drum as a musical instrument, playing both solo and with others in musical ensembles. The drum is easy to learn and does not require any prior musical training, which means it is suitable for all ages and abilities. The tongue drum is used by musicians, therapists, educators, and individuals who just enjoy making relaxing music.
How to Choose a Tongue Drum
When choosing a tongue drum, there are a few things you should consider. Think about the size of the instrument, the number of tongues and the type of sound you want to make. The material it is made of is important and can affect the sound quality. Consider whether you want a drum that plays specific scales or is able to play more freely. Consider also your budget and make sure you do your research before you make a purchase. It’s a good idea to read customer reviews and ask for recommendations to make sure you are making the right choice for your individual needs.
Key Takeaway: Carefully consider all the different options available before choosing a tongue drum, as there are many different types and designs to choose from.
FAQ
What is a tongue drum made of?
Tongue drums are typically made from steel. This can be steel or stainless steel, which is chosen for its ability to create clear tones.
Are tongue drums easy to play?
Yes, tongue drums are considered to be very easy to play. You don’t need any prior musical training, just an ability to gently tap the tongues with your fingers, a mallet, or some other kind of beater.
How do you play a tongue drum?
You can play a tongue drum by tapping the tongues with your fingers, mallets, or other types of beaters. You can experiment with different rhythms and melodies by combining different notes.
Can you tune a tongue drum?
Tuning a tongue drum can be difficult without the correct tools. Most drums come pre-tuned and should not need to be re-tuned. However, it is sometimes possible for an expert to adjust or fine-tune the tongues to a specific note.
What are the benefits of playing a tongue drum?
Playing a tongue drum can be relaxing, reduce stress, and improve focus and mindfulness. It is also a great way to explore creativity and self-expression.
Conclusion
A tongue drum is a unique, accessible and very versatile musical instrument. It is easy to learn to play, which makes it a great choice for anyone interested in making music, regardless of experience or ability. Its soothing sounds make it an excellent tool for relaxation and meditation, and can be used in a variety of settings including musical performances, music therapy and classrooms. Whether you are an experienced musician, or simply looking for a fun way to express your creativity, a tongue drum might just be the instrument you’ve been looking for.