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Djembe History

The Djembe is a particularly popular style of African rhythm drum. The Djembe was the traditional drum of the Mandinka people of the 12th Century Mali Empire which stretched across much of North West Africa, versions of the Djembe drum are found across many West African countries.

The instrument is named after the Djem tree which was traditionally used in the construction of the drum body, with the word 'be' referring to the goat hide used to skin the drum. The craftsman would take a section of the tree and carve a drum shell in one piece in the shape of the mortars used to pound grain into flour. The goat skin was then stretched across the djembe shell and secured with an intricate rope knot system that also provided tension and the ability to tune the drum.

This process has not changed much in centuries although modern materials have been introduced. Whilst modern synthetic skins, rope and a huge variety of shell materials are now used, the traditional skills and materials are generally believed to hold a superior sound.

Djembe playing holds an important place in traditional Mali culture. It is a sacred instrument of celebration and ritual. Djembe rhythms (or Diansa) are played at important times of the year such as on a full moon or during harvest time and to mark special occasions such as a wedding or Eid ul-Fitr (marking the end of Ramadan). These celebrations are an integral part of African cultural heritage and involve the whole community. Dance also plays an important part of these celebrations and often particular Djembe rhythms and specific dances are practiced in harmony to tell a story from local tradition or as the appropriate ritual for a particular occasion. Djembe are also used for communicating over large distances in rural areas.

The Djembe is traditionally played standing up, sometimes with a supporting harness, although it can also be played in a seated position. It has a wide range of rhythmic sounds and is a very versatile solo instrument or it can be played in an ensemble with other West African instruments. The drum skin is struck with both hands to make a rhythm from 3 basic tones; bass, open and slap; as well as a variety of other techniques.

To buy individual Djembes, please visit our retail partners at Orchid Trading

Djembe Construction Quality

Our Djembes and other drums are all constructed by master-craftsmen with years of experience. All of our drums are hand carved from hardwood sourced from fully traceable, certified sustainable plantations. Once the shells have been made extra care is taken with the bearing edge of every drum, which is sanded and routed for at least 30 minutes to give a perfect edge and the most responsive sound when strung. Our Jammer series, Bougarabous and Dundun Drums use the recognised standard 2 ring system whereas our Pro Africa range, the pinnacle of quality craftsmanship, uses a superior 3 ring system for extra tension and improved sound quality.

* All Djembes are constructed in South East Asia from sustainable mahogany wood.

Key Quality points

Pro Africa range

• Natural, hand shaved, goat hide skins.
• Over 30 meters of pre-stretched alpine rope on the 65cm drum.
• Up to 35 double rope runners on the 65cm drum.
• Hand finished inner surface for ultimate tone and depth.
• Easy grab handle.
• Long length of extra rope for future tuning.
• Traditional Mali tuning weave started on every Djembe.

Jammer Series Djembes and other drums

• Natural, hand shaved, goat hide skins.
• Up to 19 meters of pre-stretched alpine rope on the 60cm drum.
• Up to 21 double rope runners on the 60cm drum.
• Easy grab handle.
• Long length of extra rope for future tuning.
• Traditional Mali tuning weave started on every Djembe.

Please call us on 01242 282191 to place your order. Our friendly team will be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have.