The majority of African music relies heavily on the playing of drums. It is also characterized by an intense rhythmic playing style. This style of fast-paced, upbeat rhythmic drum playing can be found in many of the drum playing of tribes all over the continent of Africa. It is especially true of the people and tribes of Western Africa. However, there are music styles that do not rely so heavily of on the use of the drum, such as Township music, which is prevalent in South Africa. The uses of the drum music are not limited to entertainment and dance, however. In many tribes, they serve a purpose to the local community and help in the conduct of daily routines. The beats and sounds of the drum are used in communication, as well as cultural expression^[1].

Map of African Ethnic Groups

[edit] Examples of African Drums

Some examples of popular African drums:

• Djembe^[2]
  

  

  A Djembe drum
• Dunun
• Atumpan, or the Talking drum^[2]
• Ingungu^[2]
• Entenga^[2]

[edit] References

1. ^ "African music." Encyclopedia Britannica. 2009. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. http://search.eb.com/eb/article-57072
2. ^ ^{a b c d} "Membranophones." Encyclopedia Britannica. 2009. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. http://search.eb.com/eb/article-57072