How to Play African Gongs

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By Valthenya
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When referring to an African gong the most popular is the Yoruba gong. The Yoruba gong is played by the Yoruba tribal people in west Africa predominantly found in Nigeria. The Gong is used in songs to help keep rhythm. Also certain types of gongs are used as currency and others as a religious object. There are many types of gongs so I will introduce you to a few.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Imagination
Yoruba gongs

Step 1

Examine how your gong is shaped. Good questions to ask yourself are: 1.) Is it tapered on one end? 2.)Does it have any holes or openings? 3.) Is it a double gong or single? 4.)What is it made of? These questions will all allow you to determine how your gong will sound.
Step 2

If your gong is tapered as most are the smaller end will make a more high pitch sound then the long end when tapped with your mallet or stick.
Step 3

If your gong is double bell shaped then examine whether the two bells are different shapes or lengths. You can then tap on the different parts of the gong/bell to create different notes. Experiment and go with what sounds good to you.
Step 4

Sometimes you can find rarer gongs in very interesting shapes. Such as this Pea pod shaped gong. It is meant to be held in one hand while using the mallet in the other.

Tips & Warnings

There is no right or wrong way to play an African Gong. It is a very nontraditional instrument so experiment with different rhythms, melodies and tones to create your own music.

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