Drum

Drum is a percussion instrument that produces sound when a stretched membrane, or drumhead, is struck by a hand, stick, or mallet. The vibrating membrane transmits energy to the surrounding air, generating sound. Drums are membranophones and are among the oldest and most widespread instruments, with varied forms across cultures. In most music, drums provide rhythm and tempo, though some drums also contribute pitch or melodic color.

Most drums comprise a hollow shell, a drumhead stretched over one or both ends, and a tensioning system to adjust pitch. Shells may be wood, metal, or composite, and heads have historically been animal skin but are commonly synthetic today. Tension is achieved with lugs, hoops, and rods in modern drums, or with rope and knots on traditional frames. Size, shape, materials, and head tension determine the drum's pitch, tone, and sustain.

Common types include bass drums, snare drums, and tom-toms, along with hand drums such as djembé, conga, bongo, and darbuka. Timpani, or kettledrums, are pitched drums with adjustable tension. Drums may be used in orchestras, marching bands, popular music, and traditional ensembles. Playing methods vary: hands, sticks, or mallets, with techniques that emphasize rhythm, articulation, or pitch. Some drums are tuned, others are rhythmically driven and non-pitched.

Drums serve as the backbone of many musical styles, providing tempo, dynamics, and groove. They interact with other instruments through timing and accentuation and are frequently amplified or processed in modern productions.