Drums... A revolution

Drums, also known as Percussion Instruments, provide a rhythmic backbone to music. There are two main types of percussion instruments - Instruments tuned to a definite pitch and Instruments without definite pitch. Most drums are considered "untuned instruments", however many modern musicians are beginning to tune drums to songs.

Drums are probably world's oldest musical instruments. Ever since their invantion, drums have been used in rituals. There are thousands of different kinds of drums to provide a rhythmic foundation for music and dance, to send signals, work magic or stir up emotions in battle. Drums are usually played by the hands, or by one or two sticks. In many traditional cultures drums have a symbolic function and are often used in religious ceremonies. Drums are often used in music therapy, especially hand drums, because of their tactile nature and easy use by a wide variety of people.

A Drum can be any hollow body over which a membrane, or head, is stretched. When the head is hit, the ensuing vibrations are amplified by the body. Within the realm of popular music and jazz, "drums" usually refers to a drum kit or a set of drums, and "drummer" to the actual band member or person who plays them.

Other than drums, there are various Percussion Instruments like Cymbals, Hi-Hats, Gongs, Castanets etc., used as accompaniment.

Drums are known in every part of the world. In India there are many types of folk drum, including the small Kettledrum that is played strung around the neck. The Timpani (a type of drum) are the most important members of the Western Orchestral percussion section. The Side Drum gets its name from its playing position in Military Bands, where it is slung from the shoulder and worn on an angle at the player's side.

Different types of Percussion Instruments - Maracas, Rainstick, Hand Shakers, Tambourine, Guiro, Rattle, Timpani, Bass Drum, Tom-Toms, Congas, Bongos, Timbales, Steel Drums, Drum Kit, Castanets, Triangle, Xylophone, Bells, Bell chimes, Tubular Bells, Tabla, Kettledrum etc.

Jim Ankan
http://rockinglyrics.blogspot.com/