drumeli

Drumeli is a fictional traditional percussion instrument used in worldbuilding, fantasy literature, and role-playing games. It is typically depicted as a compact frame drum with a single, tensioned head, sometimes augmented by a secondary resonator to deepen its bass. In its fictional cultures, the drumeli is associated with coastal or riverine communities and often features in communal gatherings, rites, and storytelling.

Construction and playing: The drumeli is usually built from a hardwood shell with a skin or synthetic membrane stretched across one or both faces. The head is secured by lacing or cords that enable tuning. It is played by hands or soft mallets, with some variants including a rim for muted, drier tones and decorative elements such as charms or beads attached to the shell.

Cultural role and reception: In narratives, drumeli provides rhythmic support for dances and vocal performances and can signal the start or end of ceremonies. It is commonly featured in ensembles with wind or string instruments to create layered textures. In gaming and media, the drumeli can symbolize heritage, resilience, and communal memory.