Drums

Motherland Music specializes in traditional West African drums, drums that have been played and developed for generations in a continent that takes drumming to the highest level. The African way is to make sure the drum is sturdy and sounds good, decorative embellishments are secondary. The best sound comes by using quality materials, mostly for the resonating body and the natural skin drum head. We respect the simplicity and function over form approach and believe this sensibility works best for long term sustainability, and is the truest approach. Try one of Motherland’s authentic African drums and feel good about supporting a culture that makes music making part of the rhythm of everyday life.

The African drum tradition goes way back, it plays an integral part in the social and ceremonial rituals of everyday life. The drum accompanied with song and dance has been an art form for communicating the history of ancestors and meaningful events, and to add joy to and ease the stresses in many life situations.

The drum is the foundation of most African music ensembles, it is not unusual to see orchestras arranged entirely of drums with a variety of sizes and sounds. Probably most drums were and still may be used with a strict format for rhythm and tonality, but because of special qualities certain drums posses and the interests of a population for exploring these, all of the drums shown here can adapt and hopefully add a uniqueness that manifests itself into other types of music.

Every drum talks in Africa, some with exquisite eloquence. Whether its carrying a message from village to village, blessing a harvest, or praising a noteworthy person, each drum has significance in it’s size, shape, and construction assembly. African drums have deep meaning with the player and those who understand it’s language, the drum brings people together, heals their souls and uplifts their spirits. Truly, it is the heart and spirit of all Africa, peace.