The djembe is a traditional African hand-drum.
To a degree, all drums as musical instruments are used for communication. Music is a universal language that can be used to convey mood and stimulate movement. In Africa, certain drums have traditionally been used to communicate specific messages, whether though emulation of a spoken language or via a specific drumming "code."
Talking Drum
Various types and sizes of talking drums are used for communication in different areas of Africa. These drums are said to "talk" because they have the unusual quality of being able to produce different pitches - high and low sounds. Changes in pitch are produced when the drummer squeezes ropes that run between the drum's two skin heads. Squeezing the ropes tightens the head, raising the pitch. When the ropes are let loose, the pitch is lowered. Talking drums can be used to mimic the pitch and syllabic structure of languages.
Log Drum
Log drums are made by cutting slits in a hollow piece of wood. In the 21st century, log drums are used as a traditional instrument in several cultures and also as an auxiliary percussion instrument in the modern Western percussion section. A certain type of traditional African log drum used for communication is called a "slit gong" or "message drum." This drum is constructed by hollowing out a large log through a slit, producing an all-wood instrument that produces two different pitches, one from each side of the slit. These high and low sounds can be heard over significant distances, and combinations of the high and low sounds can be used to transmit messages.
Atumpan
The atumpan is a form of talking drum that is traditional in the West African country of Ghana. Skilled atumpan players are held in high regard in Ghana's Akan communities. The drum plays a leading role in a musical ensemble. Atumpan playing differs from some other talking-drum conventions, in that the drummer typically uses the drum heads to produce only falling or descending pitches through drum strokes.
Djembe
African djembe drums are traditional in several different cultures and countries and also are commonly encountered by the Western percussionist in an academic, ensemble or community setting. The djembe is a large drum with a single skin head stretched over a wooden body and fastened by ropes. The drum is played with the hands, and typically the player stands with the drum positioned between his legs. Djembe drums can be used for communication, as an accompaniment to dancers, and as part of community gatherings, celebrations and rituals.
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