djembe

The djembe is a rope-tuned, skin-covered drum played with bare hands, originating in West Africa. Its name derives from the Mandinka jembe, meaning "to collect" or "to gather," reflecting its role in communal gatherings, celebrations, and storytelling.

The body is carved from a single block of hardwood into a goblet-shaped shell. A goatskin head is stretched over the top and secured with an elaborate network of ropes and a metal tuning ring; tension is adjusted by tightening the cords, giving the djembe its variable pitch.

The instrument is typically placed between the player's knees and played with the hands. Sound comes from three zones: the center produces a bass tone, the edge yields a higher tone, and the rim creates a sharp slap. Players use a range of strokes to produce different dynamics and timbres, with most patterns combining multiple tones to form polyrhythms.

Traditionally used by Mandé communities in ceremonies, dances, and social events, the djembe has since gained global popularity. It is widely taught in percussion schools and ensembles and appears in various world music, educational, and community contexts, contributing to the spread of West African drumming traditions worldwide.