How to Buy a Djembe Drum
The djembe is a folk drum whose popularity has increased dramatically in recent years, both as a house ware and as a musical instrument. Although djembe drums are available widely, quality and craftsmanship can vary a great deal. Thus, when buying a djembe drum, it's useful to know a few things about what makes for a good quality drum.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Locate a retailer. Djembes are made in many continental locations, including several in North America. Many music store chains sell djembes, especially those that specialize in ethnic instruments or drums. Some djembes also are available in some import houseware stores, but, in most cases, it's best to purchase from these only if you want a djembe for use as a decoration.
-
2
Check out the construction of any potential drum. Make sure all fastenings are secure without major signs of rust in the metal parts, fraying in the cloth parts, holes in the skin, or other clear signs of weak parts. Make sure the shape of the drum is clean and even, without parts that are off-center or crooked. The drum should be relatively heavy and no parts should seem overly fragile.
-
-
3
Assess the djembe drum's condition. Observe the shape of the drum shell (main wooden frame) above all else. Be sure that it isn't crooked and contains no cracks.
-
4
Check the ropes. If they are light and easily stretched, you may have trouble keeping the djembe in tune.
-
5
Examine the djembe drum's rings. These should be as tight as possible against the wood of the drum.
-
6
Test the sound of the drum. Different styles of djembe drums will have different tones and timbres, but all should have a rich, resonant sound when struck. Bear in mind, however, that if you're a less experienced player, you will probably have an easier time producing a resonant sound on a drum with thinner heads (since these take less force), but thicker heads are more durable.
-
7
Compare prices of djembe drums. Prices will vary according to location and according to the distance the drum has traveled. But in general, as of 2009, you can expect to pay well over $100, and as much as the mid-$200 or $300 range for a good djembe.
-
1
