Main Turkish Drum Instruments

It is possible to say that music has had an important place in human life since ancient times. Music is food for the soul. Music makes even a sad person happy, even for a moment. Having such an effect, a life without music is unthinkable. The ones that make the music are the instruments that allow us to extract those rhythms and melodies. Musical instruments did not have much variety in ancient times. They were invented by evaluating existing possibilities and combining available materials.

When we consider Turkish musical instruments, Turkish percussion instruments come to mind first. In a more familiar expression, we can say Turkish drum instruments. These instruments were made and played both for fun and as a hobby. People used to animate the atmosphere by keeping various rhythms at weddings or big festivals. Today, with the development of technology, there are many percussion instruments. Top-class materials are used in the construction of these instruments, and their durability is increased. The most important thing is that these instruments have been passed down from generation to generation and have been a source of inspiration for us. By adding new things on top of these, we have come to offer different versions to the market.

We can list the basic Turkish drum instruments as follows:

• Bendir
• Drum
• Riq
• Darbuka
• Tamborin

About Turkish Drum Instruments

Every nation has a unique instrument, and that instrument has become a symbol of that nation. When we consider Turkish and music, the drum is accepted as the symbol of Turkish percussion instruments. The drum has been used for many different purposes in ancient times and has survived to the present day. It is quite possible to say that at least one of the drums or percussion instruments is played in almost every region of Turkey. These instruments, which we call percussion instruments or drums, have different types and sizes. A hoop, string, and leather are usually used in the making of these instruments. Playing each one requires different skills and dexterity. For example, to play the drum, it is necessary to use the mallet and stick well. To play the darbuka, the fingers must be fast, but no matter what, anyone who is willing can learn and play these instruments.

What Are The Turkish Drum Instruments?

Percussion instruments have a special place in Turkish culture. We can see percussion instruments in every region, but their names may differ from region to region. The most well-known Turkish drum instruments are:

1. Bendir

It is one of the main percussion instruments used in Turkish music. The bendir is in the shape of a circle. It consists of leather stretched over a 40 to 60 cm wide hoop. In some regions, it is referred to as percussion reed. It is played directly by hand, without the need for any additional instruments. Both hands are actively used in this instrument.

2. Drum

The drum is made of wood, metal, or terracotta with leather stretched over a cylindrical body. It is played by hand or with a stick. Its appearance varies from region to region, but it is present in every society. The drum is the simplest instrument. It consists of two basic parts. These are the hoop and the leather. This hoop is covered with leather and played by hand or with a stick. This stick is often called a drumstick.

3. Riq

It is made by attaching thin sheets of metal or rings to three or four rectangular holes in a circular wooden frame. Fish or goatskin is used in making riq. The width of the frame is 45-50 cm. By hitting the dice with both hands, the sound is produced, and a rhythm emerges.

4. Turkish Darbuka

Darbuka is quite common in certain regions of our country, and it gives energy to people thanks to the rhythm it produces. Darbuka also has two sounds, called dürüm and single. For the first sound, the middle of the instrument is struck. The second sound is produced mostly for decoration and improvisation. Darbuka is mostly used for entertainment purposes.

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