Monkey drums are made worldwide including Africa, Peru, and South America. They are great gifts for people who appreciate world music. These instruments likely originated in Africa as the damassas, they have many variations used in rituals—like Japan’s Den-den daiko, China’s bolanggu, and Korea’s sogo drum. Played by twisting the wrist, these drums are musical instruments, not toys. They gained fame in The Karate Kid, and we offer a similar version. You can learn to play via our video or step-by-step instructions below.
1. Holding position
Firstly you will want to get comfortable holding your monkey drum, you will need to hold the bottom of the stick handle with both of your hands keeping them relatively flat.
2. Playing technique
Slowly twist the stick around the palm of your hand, putting your left hand forward, right hand back. Then again the opposite way around with your left hand backwards, and your right hand forward. This will cause the stringed beads or wood to hit the body base of the monkey drum paddle. Actually making sound from it is the easy part, it is the rhythm that brings the challenges.
3. Rhythm
You should keep practising and try to keep a steady beat, counting 1, 2, 3, 4, (repeat) until you are confidently making the sound on each beat. There are many designs of monkey drum, usually, the way to play stays the same, it is only the sound that varies depending upon the materials used, the size and weight of the strikers.
Where to Buy the Monkey Drum?
★★★★★ - "Thank you. Gorgeous item, great price, quality products and beautiful sounds" - Verified Buyer
Our monkey drums bring instant fun and rhythm—easy to learn and great for all ages. Handcrafted with quality from authentic makers in regions like Africa, Peru, and beyond, each drum is built to last and delivers vibrant sound. Whether you want to jam solo, impress friends, or energize any gathering, our unique collection offers the perfect drum to start your musical journey.
