kalangu

The kalangu is a type of talking drum traditionally found in West Africa, particularly among the Hausa people. It is a double-headed drum, typically made from wood, with animal skin stretched over both ends. A distinctive feature of the kalangu is the presence of tension cords running along its sides. These cords are manipulated by the player to alter the pitch and timbre of the drum's sound.

The player holds the kalangu under one arm, often cradled against the body, and strikes the drum heads with a curved stick. By squeezing the tension cords, the player can create a wide range of sounds, mimicking human speech patterns and producing melodic tones. This ability to produce varied pitches and inflections is why it is often referred to as a "talking drum."

Historically, the kalangu has played a significant role in communication and storytelling. Its ability to convey messages over distances made it an important tool for news dissemination and for coordinating events within communities. It is also used in musical performances, accompanying singing and dancing, and as part of ensembles. The rhythmic and melodic capabilities of the kalangu make it a versatile instrument in traditional West African music. While its traditional uses remain, the kalangu is also found in contemporary African music genres.