What are Dundun drums?
The dunduns (or dunun) are a family of cylindrical African drums. They are traditionally played along the djembe and provide a deep bass to accompany the rhythms.
Contrary to the expectation of maintaining a steady and uniform beat, the dundun drums, in fact, generate intricately syncopated patterns that add remarkable depth and complexity to the music.
There are three distinct types of dundun drums. The largest one is known as the Dundunba, which produces deep and resonant tones. The middle-sized drum is called the Sangba, providing a balanced sound. Lastly, the smallest drum is referred to as the Kenkeni, offering higher-pitched notes. Contrary to the djembe which is played with one’s hands, these drums are played with a thick stick.
Traditionally, they would be played sideways with one hand playing the head with a stick, while the other hand plays a bell attached to the top of the drum’s shell. You can even have multiple musicians playing various complimentary rhythms on each of the three dunduns. In some cases, one musician might strap all three drums together and play them combined!
What do the Dundun drums look like?
Similar to the djembe, dunduns are crafted from a single piece of hollowed wood, shaped into a barrel form.
These drums have two sides, but only one side is played at a time using a stick or mallet. In Guinea, dunduns typically feature sturdy and thick cow skin as the drumhead, while in countries like Mali, lighter goat skin is commonly used.
African Drumming Workshops
Experience the vitality and creative freedom of playing African drums with Unbeatable Energy’s nationwide drumming classes.
African drumming workshops are an amazing way to energise, unwind and strengthen your relationships. We offer drumming workshops for corporate icebreaker events, school events, higher education and host regular evening classes in Sheffield.
What do the Dundun drums sound like?
The dundun drums possess a distinct and powerful sound that adds depth and rhythmic complexity to West African music. When played, the dununba, sangba, and kenkeni produce a layered ensemble of catchy tones.
You will rarely see a professional Djembe group in West Africa without the Dundun drums. These drums possess remarkable strength and drive, producing an irresistibly energetic and infectious, funky sound which makes it virtually impossible not to move when their beat dances through the air!