tambourines

A tambourine is a percussion instrument consisting of a circular frame, typically made of wood or plastic, with pairs of small metal jingles mounted around the rim. In some versions a drumhead is stretched across one side of the frame, producing a pitched sound when struck, while other models are headless and rely on the jingles for sound. The instrument is usually held in the hand and played by striking, shaking, or rubbing the frame.

Construction and variations vary widely. Frame tambourines range from compact handheld models to larger stage instruments. The jingles are typically made of metal such as brass or steel, and the frame may be wooden or plastic. Some instruments incorporate a single or double row of jingles, and headed variants use a lightweight skin or film as the drumhead to add a tonal layer when struck.

History and regional forms. The tambourine appears in many ancient cultures, with depictions in Mesopotamian and Egyptian art. It became common in European folk and court music during the medieval and Renaissance periods and later spread worldwide through folk, religious, and popular music. Related instruments include the pandeiro of Brazil, which combines a head with jingles around the edge and is prominent in samba and other genres.

Playing technique and role. Players may strike the drumhead with fingers or the palm, tap the frame with the other hand, shake the instrument to excite the jingles, or rub them to create a sustained rustle. In ensembles, tambourines provide rhythmic accompaniment and color, supporting a wide range of musical styles from classical and religious to folk and contemporary popular music.