Djembe

The djembe (also spelled jembe) is a rope-tuned skin-covered goblet drum originating from West Africa. According to the Bamana people in Mali, the name of the djembe comes from the saying "Anke djé, anke bé" which translates to "everyone gather together in peace" and defines the drum's purpose.

Traditionally, the djembe is made from a single piece of hardwood, most commonly from the lenke tree (Afzelia africana), and covered with an animal skin, typically goat. The head is held in place and tuned with a rope system.

The djembe is known for its wide range of sounds. A skilled player can produce three main tones: bass, tone, and slap. The bass is a deep, resonant sound produced by striking the center of the drum. The tone is a clear, ringing sound produced by striking the edge of the drum. The slap is a sharp, percussive sound produced by striking the edge of the drum with a flat hand.

The djembe is commonly used in traditional West African music ensembles and is also a popular instrument for drum circles and other participatory music events around the world. Its portability and versatility have contributed to its global popularity. Different regions and cultures that have adopted the djembe have developed their own unique playing styles and rhythms.