The djembe is a West African drum that has been used for centuries in traditional music and dance. Its distinctive shape and sound have made it a popular instrument among musicians worldwide. But have you ever wondered how a djembe is made? In this guide, we will take a step-by-step look at the process of making a djembe, from selecting the wood to shaping the drumhead. Join us as we explore the art of djembe making and discover the craftsmanship that goes into creating this incredible instrument.
What is a Djembe Drum?
Origins and Significance
The djembe drum is a West African musical instrument that has been used for centuries in traditional music and dance. It is a membranophone, which means that it is a drum that produces sound by the vibration of a stretched membrane. The djembe is typically made from a hollow wooden body and a goatskin head, and it is played with the hands or a drumstick.
The origins of the djembe can be traced back to the Mandinka people of West Africa, who used it in their traditional music and dance. The djembe was also an important instrument in the West African cultural practice of “drumming circles,” which were used for communal gatherings, religious ceremonies, and social events.
The djembe has become an important symbol of West African culture, and it is widely recognized as a cultural artifact that represents the history and traditions of the Mandinka people. The djembe is also considered to be a sacred instrument, and it is often used in religious ceremonies and spiritual practices.
In addition to its cultural significance, the djembe has also become a popular instrument in modern music, and it is widely used in jazz, rock, and pop music. Its unique sound and versatility have made it a favorite among musicians and music lovers around the world.
Materials Used
A djembe drum is a traditional West African drum made from a hollow wooden shell covered with animal skin. To create a high-quality djembe, several materials are required, including:
- Wooden Shell: The shell is the most important part of the djembe. It is typically made from a hardwood such as mahogany, rosewood, or wenge. The wood is carefully selected for its durability and ability to produce a rich, resonant sound.
- Rope: Rope is used to secure the skin to the shell. It is usually made from natural fibers such as jute or hemp, and is tightly wound around the shell to create a tension that helps shape the drumhead.
- Animal Skin: The skin used to cover the shell is typically made from goat or cowhide. The skin is carefully selected for its thickness and texture, as it will affect the sound of the drum.
- Pegs: Pegs are used to secure the skin to the shell. They are typically made from hardwood and are carefully shaped and sanded to fit snugly into the holes in the shell.
- Glue: Glue is used to attach the skin to the shell. It is typically made from animal hide glue, which is strong and durable.
- Finishing Materials: Finishing materials such as wax, oil, or varnish may be used to protect the shell and enhance its appearance. These materials can also help to reduce the amount of moisture that can penetrate the shell and affect its sound.
The Making Process
Choosing the Wood
The wood chosen for djembe making plays a crucial role in determining the quality and sound of the instrument. It is essential to select the right type of wood that is durable, lightweight, and has the right density to produce the desired tonal qualities.
Factors to Consider
When choosing the wood for djembe making, several factors need to be considered, including:
- Density: The density of the wood affects the sound of the djembe. Generally, heavier woods produce a deeper sound, while lighter woods produce a higher-pitched sound.
- Durability: The wood should be able to withstand the stresses and strains of playing without cracking or warping.
- Availability: The availability of the wood can affect its cost and ease of use.
- Sustainability: Choosing sustainably sourced wood is essential to ensure the long-term availability of the material.
Types of Wood
There are several types of wood commonly used for djembe making, including:
- African Mahogany: This wood is dense and produces a deep, rich sound. It is also resistant to decay and insect damage.
- African Padauk: This wood is lightweight and produces a bright, crisp sound. It is also resistant to decay and insect damage.
- African Walnut: This wood is similar to African Mahogany but is lighter in weight. It produces a sound that is between the two other types of wood.
- Sapele: This wood is lightweight and produces a bright, crisp sound. It is also resistant to decay and insect damage.
Tools for Choosing Wood
When choosing the wood for djembe making, it is important to have the right tools to ensure the wood is of high quality. Some of the tools needed include:
- Hand loupe: This tool is used to examine the wood’s surface for defects and to determine the density of the wood.
- Density meter: This tool is used to measure the density of the wood.
- Moisture meter: This tool is used to measure the moisture content of the wood.
- Saw: This tool is used to cut the wood into the desired shape and size.
In conclusion, choosing the right wood for djembe making is crucial to producing an instrument that produces the desired sound and is durable. It is important to consider factors such as density, durability, availability, and sustainability when selecting the wood. The right tools are also essential to ensure the wood is of high quality.
Cutting the Wood
Selecting the Wood
The first step in making a djembe is selecting the right type of wood. The most commonly used woods for djembe making are:
- African mahogany: also known as Khaya, this wood is lightweight, strong, and has a beautiful grain pattern.
- Wenge: this wood is heavier than African mahogany and has a straight grain pattern, making it ideal for creating a balanced djembe.
- Cedar: this wood is lightweight and has a natural resistance to insects and rot, making it a popular choice for djembe making.
Once the right type of wood has been selected, the next step is to cut it to the right size. The standard size for a djembe is around 22 inches in diameter and 36 inches in height. However, the size can vary depending on the desired sound and playing style.
Shaping the Wood
After the wood has been cut to size, the next step is to shape it. The basic shape of a djembe is a cylinder with a slightly bulging middle and a flattened bottom. The wood is shaped using a combination of hand tools and power tools, such as a lathe and a bandsaw.
The shape of the djembe is important because it affects the sound and resonance of the instrument. A well-shaped djembe will produce a clear, balanced sound with good bass and treble.
Sanding the Wood
Once the wood has been shaped, the next step is to sand it. Sanding is important because it helps to remove any imperfections and create a smooth surface. The wood is sanded using progressively finer grits of sandpaper, starting with coarse sandpaper and ending with fine sandpaper.
The sanding process can be time-consuming, but it is important to take the time to get it right. A rough or uneven surface can affect the sound and playability of the djembe.
Marking the Bottom
After the wood has been sanded, the next step is to mark the bottom of the djembe. The bottom of the djembe is traditionally decorated with a series of circles, called “signs,” that represent the rhythms and patterns of West African music.
The signs are marked onto the bottom of the djembe using a compass and a pencil. The number and size of the signs can vary depending on the desired sound and playing style.
In conclusion, the cutting of the wood is a crucial step in the making of a djembe. The right type of wood must be selected, cut to the right size, shaped, sanded, and marked. Each step must be done with care and attention to detail to ensure that the final product is of the highest quality.
Shaping the Body
Choosing the Wood
The first step in shaping the body of a djembe is selecting the right type of wood. The wood used for making djembes is typically of the Aja tree, which is a hardwood known for its durability and resistance to decay. The wood should be seasoned for at least three years before being used to make the drum.
Measuring and Marking the Wood
Once the wood has been selected, the next step is to measure and mark the wood for cutting. The wood is cut into a cylindrical shape that is approximately 25cm in diameter and 40cm in height. The top of the wood is then flattened to create the surface on which the drumhead will be attached.
Carving the Body
The carving process involves creating a slight indentation in the center of the wood, which is where the drumhead will be attached. The wood is then carved to create a shape that is slightly tapered towards the bottom. The edges of the wood are also smoothed out to create a comfortable surface for the player to hold.
Sanding and Polishing
After the carving process, the body of the djembe is sanded to create a smooth surface. The sanding process is followed by polishing the surface using a combination of oil and wax. This helps to create a shiny finish that enhances the visual appeal of the djembe.
Attaching the Drumhead
The final step in shaping the body of the djembe is attaching the drumhead. The drumhead is made from animal skin, which is stretched over the top of the carved body. The skin is tightened using ropes, which are then tied to the wooden body using knots. This process creates a taut surface that produces a clear and resonant sound when the djembe is played.
Attaching the Head
Attaching the head to the djembe is a crucial step in the making process. It is important to ensure that the head is properly attached to the body of the djembe in order to achieve the desired sound quality. Here are the steps involved in attaching the head to the djembe:
- Preparing the Head
The first step is to prepare the head for attachment. This involves selecting a suitable skin for the head, which should be of high quality and suitable for producing the desired sound. The skin should be cleaned and treated with oil to make it soft and pliable. - Measuring the Head
The next step is to measure the diameter of the head, which should be between 8 and 12 inches. This measurement will determine the size of the djembe and the type of sound it will produce. - Attaching the Head
The head is then attached to the body of the djembe using nails or screws. The head should be placed on the body of the djembe and adjusted to ensure that it is tightly secured. The nails or screws should be placed evenly around the circumference of the head. - Shaping the Head
Once the head is attached, it should be shaped to the desired curve. This is done by hand and requires a lot of skill and experience. The shape of the head affects the sound quality of the djembe, so it is important to get it right. - Sanding the Head
After shaping the head, it should be sanded to achieve a smooth finish. This is done using sandpaper and requires a lot of care to avoid damaging the skin. - Attaching the Tuneable Rings
Finally, tuneable rings are attached to the head to allow for tuning. These rings are attached using a special tool and require precision and care to avoid damaging the skin.
Overall, attaching the head to the djembe is a critical step in the making process. It requires skill, experience, and attention to detail to ensure that the head is properly attached and shaped to achieve the desired sound quality.
Sanding and Finishing
After the djembe shell has been carved and the ropes have been attached, the next step in the making process is sanding and finishing. This step is crucial in achieving a smooth and even surface, as well as enhancing the overall appearance of the djembe.
There are several types of sandpaper that can be used during the sanding process, including coarse, medium, and fine grits. The choice of sandpaper depends on the desired level of smoothness and the type of finish that will be applied. Coarse grit sandpaper is used to remove large amounts of material quickly, while fine grit sandpaper is used to achieve a smooth and polished finish.
Before sanding, it is important to cover the djembe with a protective layer of wax or oil to prevent damage to the surface. This step is also important in preventing the sandpaper from sticking to the surface and creating uneven scratches.
Once the sanding process is complete, the djembe can be cleaned with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. It is then ready for the finishing process, which can involve a variety of techniques, such as staining, painting, or applying a clear coat.
The choice of finish depends on the desired appearance of the djembe and the preferences of the maker. Some makers prefer a natural finish that showcases the beauty of the wood grain, while others prefer a more decorative finish that highlights the shape and form of the djembe.
Regardless of the type of finish used, it is important to apply it evenly and carefully to ensure that the djembe looks and feels smooth and polished. The finishing process is also an opportunity to add decorative elements, such as symbols or patterns, that reflect the cultural significance of the djembe.
Overall, the sanding and finishing process is a critical step in the making of a djembe, as it determines the final appearance and feel of the instrument. It requires attention to detail, careful selection of materials, and a commitment to achieving the highest level of craftsmanship.
Adding Decoration
Choosing the Design
The first step in adding decoration to a djembe is choosing the design. This can be a difficult decision as the design will be a permanent part of the instrument. There are many options to choose from, including traditional African designs, modern patterns, and even personalized designs. It is important to consider the style of music that the djembe will be used for and the preferences of the player when making this decision.
Preparing the Surface
Once the design has been chosen, the surface of the djembe must be prepared for decoration. This may involve sanding the surface to create a smooth finish or applying a primer to ensure that the decoration adheres properly. It is important to take care when preparing the surface to avoid damaging the instrument.
Applying the Decoration
There are many techniques for applying decoration to a djembe, including painting, stenciling, and applying decals. Painting is a popular method as it allows for a wide range of designs and colors to be used. Stencils can be used to create intricate patterns and designs, while decals can be applied to the surface of the djembe to add a decorative element.
Finishing the Decoration
Once the decoration has been applied, it must be finished to ensure that it is durable and long-lasting. This may involve applying a clear coat to protect the decoration and give the djembe a glossy finish. It is important to take care when finishing the decoration to avoid damaging the instrument.
In conclusion, adding decoration to a djembe is an important step in the making process. It can be a challenging decision to choose the right design, but with careful preparation and application, the decoration can enhance the beauty and appeal of the instrument.
The Importance of Craftsmanship
Traditional Techniques
In the art of djembe making, traditional techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving the rich cultural heritage of the instrument. These techniques involve a combination of skill, creativity, and attention to detail, ensuring that each djembe is crafted with care and precision.
Some of the traditional techniques used in djembe making include:
- Choosing the right wood: The wood used for djembe making is crucial to the instrument’s sound quality and durability. Traditional djembe makers select wood based on its density, grain pattern, and overall quality, ensuring that the instrument produces a rich, resonant sound.
- Shaping the body: The body of the djembe is shaped using traditional tools such as the adze, knife, and chisel. The craftsman carefully carves the wood to create the distinctive shape of the djembe, taking into account the size, depth, and overall balance of the instrument.
- Crafting the head: The head of the djembe is crafted using goat skin, which is stretched over the body of the instrument and secured with ropes. Traditional djembe makers carefully select the skin based on its quality and thickness, ensuring that it produces a clear, resonant sound.
- Attaching the ropes: The ropes that hold the head of the djembe in place are hand-tied using traditional techniques. The craftsman wraps the ropes around the body of the instrument, securing the head in place and allowing it to vibrate freely.
- Finishing touches: Once the djembe is assembled, traditional djembe makers add the finishing touches by applying a protective coating to the body of the instrument. This coating helps to preserve the djembe and enhance its sound quality over time.
Overall, traditional techniques are essential to the art of djembe making, ensuring that each instrument is crafted with care and precision. By preserving these techniques, djembe makers can continue to create high-quality instruments that are true to the rich cultural heritage of the instrument.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
The craft of djembe making holds great significance in preserving the cultural heritage of the communities that have been making them for generations. Djembe drums have been an integral part of West African culture, and their craftsmanship is deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the region. By learning the art of djembe making, individuals can contribute to the preservation of this cultural heritage and keep the tradition alive for future generations.
Here are some of the ways in which djembe making contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage:
- Maintaining Cultural Identity: The craft of djembe making is an essential aspect of the cultural identity of West African communities. By learning the art of djembe making, individuals can contribute to the preservation of this cultural identity and help to keep the traditions and customs of the region alive.
- Preserving Traditional Skills: The art of djembe making requires a range of traditional skills, including carpentry, drum-making, and painting. By learning these skills, individuals can help to preserve the traditional craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
- Promoting Cultural Understanding: The art of djembe making can also promote cultural understanding and appreciation. By learning about the history and traditions behind djembe making, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of West Africa and promote cross-cultural dialogue.
- Creating Opportunities for Cultural Exchange: Finally, the art of djembe making can create opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration. By sharing their knowledge and skills with others, djembe makers can help to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of West African culture and create opportunities for collaboration and exchange between different cultures.
Overall, the art of djembe making plays an important role in preserving the cultural heritage of West African communities. By learning this craft, individuals can contribute to the preservation of this cultural heritage and help to keep the traditions and customs of the region alive for future generations.
The Value of Handmade Instruments
The art of djembe making is deeply rooted in African culture, and the value of handmade instruments is undeniable. Here are some reasons why handmade djembes are highly valued:
- Unique character: Each handmade djembe has its own unique character, with subtle variations in the wood grain, shape, and sound. These variations are a result of the individual craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each instrument.
- Traditional craftsmanship: Djembe making is a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations in African communities. Handmade djembes are a tangible link to this rich cultural heritage and help to preserve the craft for future generations.
- Quality and durability: Handmade djembes are often made from high-quality woods that have been carefully selected for their strength and tonal qualities. The craftsman’s attention to detail and use of traditional techniques result in an instrument that is not only beautiful but also highly durable and long-lasting.
- Customization: Handmade djembes can be customized to the buyer’s preferences, such as size, wood type, and design. This level of customization ensures that the instrument is tailored to the individual player’s needs and preferences.
- Authenticity: A handmade djembe is an authentic representation of African craftsmanship and culture. It is a genuine piece of art that reflects the skills and traditions of the craftsman who made it.
Overall, the value of handmade djembes lies in their unique character, traditional craftsmanship, quality and durability, customization, and authenticity. These qualities make handmade djembes highly sought after by drummers and collectors alike, and they are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of African drumming.
The Joy of Playing a Handmade Djembe
There is nothing quite like the feeling of playing a handmade djembe. The craftsmanship that goes into each instrument is evident in the sound it produces. A handmade djembe is made with love and care, and that love and care translates into the sound it produces.
One of the most important aspects of a handmade djembe is the wood it is made from. Each type of wood produces a different sound, and the wood chosen can greatly affect the overall sound of the instrument. A skilled djembe maker will choose the wood carefully, taking into account the desired sound and the specific characteristics of the wood.
Another important factor in the sound of a handmade djembe is the construction of the instrument. The shape of the body, the size of the drumhead, and the type of rope used can all affect the sound of the djembe. A skilled djembe maker will take all of these factors into account when constructing the instrument, ensuring that it produces the best possible sound.
But the joy of playing a handmade djembe goes beyond just the sound it produces. There is something special about holding an instrument that was made by hand, with care and attention to every detail. It feels like a connection to the maker, and to the tradition of djembe making. Playing a handmade djembe is a reminder of the skill and craftsmanship that goes into each instrument, and it is a privilege to be able to play one.
The Future of Djembe Making
As the art of djembe making continues to evolve, so too does the future of this craft. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional African instruments, and djembe making is no exception. This has led to a renewed focus on the importance of craftsmanship and the preservation of traditional techniques.
One of the main challenges facing the future of djembe making is the decline in the number of skilled craftsmen. Many djembe makers are aging, and there is a lack of younger craftsmen to take their place. This has led to concerns about the survival of traditional djembe making techniques and the future of the craft.
To address this issue, many organizations and institutions are working to preserve traditional djembe making techniques and promote the craft to younger generations. This includes offering apprenticeships and training programs, as well as hosting workshops and events to showcase the art of djembe making.
Another challenge facing the future of djembe making is the influence of mass production and globalization. As more djembes are produced and sold globally, there is a risk that traditional techniques and materials may be compromised in favor of speed and cost-effectiveness. This has led to concerns about the authenticity and quality of djembes produced in this way.
To ensure the future of djembe making, it is important to continue to prioritize craftsmanship and traditional techniques. This means supporting skilled craftsmen and preserving traditional methods of djembe making, while also embracing innovation and new technologies that can help to improve the quality and sustainability of the craft.
In conclusion, the future of djembe making is bright, but it is important to remain vigilant and proactive in preserving the craft and ensuring its continued survival. By supporting traditional techniques and promoting the art of djembe making to younger generations, we can ensure that this important cultural tradition continues to thrive for years to come.
Final Thoughts
- In conclusion, the making of a djembe drum is a process that requires great attention to detail and a deep understanding of the materials and techniques involved.
- It is a craft that demands respect for the traditions and cultural significance of the instrument, as well as a commitment to producing a high-quality product.
- While the steps outlined in this guide provide a solid foundation for djembe making, it is important to remember that each drum is unique and may require adjustments and modifications based on the individual craftsman’s skill and experience.
- Ultimately, the art of djembe making is a testament to the power of human creativity and the ability to transform raw materials into something beautiful and meaningful.
FAQs
1. What is a djembe?
A djembe is a traditional African drum that is typically made from a hollow wooden shell and covered with goat or sheep skin. It is a percussion instrument that is commonly used in African music and dance.
2. What are the materials needed to make a djembe?
To make a djembe, you will need a wooden shell, goat or sheep skin, rope, a hammer, a chisel, a gouge, a sandpaper, and a strap. You will also need tools for carving and shaping the wooden shell, such as a pocket knife or X-Acto knife.
3. How is a djembe shell made?
To make a djembe shell, you will need to start with a piece of wood, such as birch or maple. You will then need to carve the wood into a bowl shape using a chisel and gouge. Once the shell is carved, you will need to sand it smooth and round the edges. Finally, you will need to stain or paint the shell to give it a finished look.
4. How is a djembe head made?
To make a djembe head, you will need to start with a piece of goat or sheep skin. You will then need to stretch the skin over the shell of the djembe and use rope to secure it in place. You may also want to use a gouge or other tool to shape the head and give it a finished look.
5. How is a djembe strap made?
To make a djembe strap, you will need to start with a piece of cloth or leather. You will then need to sew the strap together using a needle and thread. Once the strap is complete, you can attach it to the djembe using rope or another method of your choice.
6. How do I tune a djembe?
To tune a djembe, you will need to use a drum key or other tool to tighten or loosen the ropes on the head of the drum. You can also use your hand to tap on the head of the drum and adjust the pitch as needed.
7. How long does it take to make a djembe?
The amount of time it takes to make a djembe will depend on your level of experience and the complexity of the drum you are making. In general, it can take several hours to several days to complete a djembe, from start to finish.
8. Can I make a djembe by myself?
Yes, you can make a djembe by yourself if you have the necessary materials and tools. Making a djembe can be a fun and rewarding project, but it does require some skill and patience.