What is djembes?

Djembe is a skin-covered hand drum originating from West Africa, specifically the Mandinka people of Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Senegal. The name "djembe" comes from the saying "Anke dje, anke be," which translates to "everyone gather together in peace."

Typically, djembes are carved from a single piece of hardwood, such as mahogany or teak, and are laced with goat or cow skin. The drum has a cylindrical body with a wide, flared top and a narrow base, giving it a distinctive hourglass shape.

Djembes are played with the hands and can produce a wide range of sounds, from low bass tones to sharp, high-pitched slaps. They are often used in traditional African music and dance as well as in contemporary music genres such as jazz, rock, and world music.

Djembes have gained popularity around the world for their unique sound and versatility, and can be found in drum circles, performance groups, and even in classrooms as an educational tool. Learning to play the djembe involves mastering specific techniques and rhythms that are central to African music.