Nigerian Membranophone (Drum): "Dùndún"
Nigerian Membranophone (Drum): "Dùndún"

Nigerian Membranophone (Drum): "Dùndún"

Collection: Spiritual Connections

Object Category: Music and Noisemakers

Country: Nigeria
Continent: Africa
Geographic Region: Western Africa
Materials: Wood, Leather, Skin
height: 15.5 in;

The Nigerian talking drum, called "dùndún," is closely tied to the Yoruba language of South Western Nigeria. The Yoruba language is a tonal language. The dùndún's tones are adjusted with leather cords that run the length of the drum's body. As it is played, its tones have the ability to mimic the spoken word, hence it is actually a talking drum.

The dùndún has an important presence in all aspects of Yoruba life. The drum is used at birth, in ancestor worship, rites of passage, healing, storytelling, warrior rites and initiation, at the time of death, and as an an important means of communication over long distances.
Source:
https://www.britannica.com/art/dundun-pressure-drum
http://www.kanyinsola.com/Talking drums.html