Hands playing a djembe drum in a studio

How to Play the Djembe Drum

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Learning to play the djembe starts with three core sounds: bass, tone and slap. In this guide, you’ll learn how to hold and position the drum corre...
Two Indian dholak drums side by side

Indian Dholak Drum - Complete Guide

DrumsRyan Bomzer
If you’re looking to understand the Indian dholak or choose one to play, this complete guide covers everything you need to know. You’ll learn about...
Close up of traditional African Djembe Drum Head

Does Djembe Drum Size Matter?

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Djembe drum size directly affects tone, volume, projection, playability and portability. Size usually refers to the diameter of the drumhead, measu...
Shamanic drums of different size and a shamanic drum beater

Which Shamanic Drum Size Is for You?

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Choosing the right shamanic drum size comes down to sound and practicality. Larger drums generally produce deeper, louder tones with greater presen...
Cows hide shamanic drum with two hands holding the grip

Shamanic Drums – Buying Guide

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Choosing a shamanic drum comes down to a few practical factors such as size, drumhead material, construction and sound. Larger drums generally prod...
how to care for your shamanic drum?

How to Care for your Shamanic Drum?

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Proper care helps protect your shamanic drum's hide, frame and sound. Natural-hide drums are particularly affected by moisture, heat, sunlight and ...
Close up of a shamanic drum beater on a colorful background

What Beater for a Shamanic Drum?

DrumsRyan Bomzer
The best beater for a shamanic drum is usually a soft, padded beater that produces a warm, rounded tone. Weight, balance and handle design a...
How to Play A Shamanic Drum (Tutorial)

How to Play A Shamanic Drum (Tutorial)

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Shamanic drums are frame drums used for rhythm, meditation, ceremony and spiritual practices across different cultures. Playing one is relatively s...
Darbuka Drums (The Complete Guide)

Darbuka Drums – Complete Guide

DrumsRyan Bomzer
The darbuka is a goblet-shaped hand drum associated with Middle Eastern, North African and Mediterranean music. Its compact size, distinctive shape...
grey background shamanic drum with black beater

Should You Play a Shamanic Drum with Hands or Beater?

DrumsRyan Bomzer
Should you play a shamanic drum with your hands or a beater? Both methods create different tones, and the choice can affect how the drum feels and ...