djel

Djel, also known as the djembe, is a rope-tuned skin-covered goblet drum originating from West Africa. It is a member of the goblet drum family and is played with bare hands. The goblet drum is a member of the membranophone family of musical instruments. The djembe is believed to have originated in the Mali Empire around the 12th century. Its name is derived from the Bambara word "jembe," which means "drum" and the verb "djembe," which means "to gather in peace."

The djembe typically consists of a wooden shell, carved from a single piece of hardwood, and a goatskin head. The head is secured by a system of ropes and metal rings. The tension of the ropes can be adjusted to change the pitch of the drum. Traditionally, djembes are carved from various West African hardwoods such as lenke, dugura, or iroko. The skin is usually from a goat, but sometimes from other animals like calf or even cow.

The djembe produces a wide range of tones, from deep bass notes to sharp, high-pitched slaps. It is often played in ensembles, accompanying traditional dances and ceremonies. The djembe is known for its complex rhythmic patterns and its ability to produce a variety of sounds. Its versatility has led to its widespread popularity in world music. In recent decades, the djembe has gained international recognition and is now played by musicians worldwide, often incorporated into contemporary musical styles.