The Best Folk Drum Music From Around the World

There is something special about folk drum music that just makes you want to tap your feet and dance. Whether it is the upbeat tempo or the catchy rhythms, folk drum music is sure to get your toes tapping. Let’s take a look at some of the best folk drum music from around the world.

Europe

Europe has a rich tradition of folk music, with a wide variety of styles and influences. Celtic music is one of the most well-known and popular types of folk music, and it has its origins in the British Isles. Celtic music is often characterized by its use of traditional instruments like the fiddle, accordion, and bagpipes, as well as its upbeat tempo and lively tunes. Another popular type of European folk music is Balkan music, which originates in the Balkans region of southeastern Europe. Balkan music is known for its complex rhythms and melodies, as well as its use of traditional instruments like the accordion, tamburitza (a type of string instrument), and zurna (a type of wind instrument).

.1 Ireland

When it comes to drumming, the Emerald Isle has a lot to offer. From high-energy bodhran playing to upbeat cajon rhythms, there is a wealth of folk drumming styles to explore.

One of the most popular traditionalIrish drums is the bodhran. This hand-held frame drum is often used in Celtic music, and is played with a stick or beater. Bodhrans can be found in a variety of sizes, but the most common size is approximately 18 inches in diameter.

Another popular type of folk drumming from Ireland is cajon drumming. Cajons are box-shaped drums that originated in Peru, but have become extremely popular in Ireland in recent years. Cajon drums are usually played with the hands, and can produce a variety of sounds depending on how they are struck.

If you’re looking for some truly unique folk drumming from around the world, Ireland is a great place to start your search.

.2 Scotland

The Highland Bagpipe is one of the most commonly known Scottish Instruments. It is quite unique in that it has a double reed, which gives it a very distinctive sound. The Great Highland Bagpipe is actually just one type of bagpipe, however; there are also smaller versions such as the Scottish smallpipes, as well as other types from around the world.

The drum is an integral part of Scottish music, and there are many different types of drums used in traditional music. The most common type of drum is the snare drum, which is used to provide the rhythm for many dances such as the Highland Fling and the Sword Dance. Bass drums are also used in Scottish music, and these are usually played by two people; one person plays the drum while the other beats a drumstick against it. Other drums used in Scottish music include the Bodhran, which is a Celtic frame drum, and the Djembe, which is an African hand drum.

.3 England

We’re taking a look at the best folk drum music from around the world! From England to Ireland, France to America, there’s a rich tradition of folk music that has been passed down through generations.

When it comes to English folk drumming, there are two main styles: Morris and Appalachian. Morris dancing is a traditional English folk dance that dates back to the 16th century. It’s characterized by its use of handheld drums, called “tabor drums,” which are played with sticks. Appalachian folk drumming, on the other hand, is a style that was developed in the mountains of Appalachia in the United States. It’s similar to Morris drumming in that it uses handheld drums, but the similarity ends there. Appalachian folk drumming is characterized by its use of floor tom-toms, which are played with bare hands.

Both styles of English folk drumming are incredibly rich and textured, and each has its own unique history and traditions. If you’re interested in exploring English folk drumming further, we highly recommend checking out some of the resources below.

Africa

drumming is an important part of many African cultures. In fact, it is often said that African music is incomplete without drums. There are a wide variety of African drums, each with its own unique sound and purpose.

Drums are used for communication, celebrations, religious ceremonies, and paying respects to ancestors. They are also used in healing rituals and as a form of divination.

There are four main types of African drums:

1. Membranophones: These drums have a membrane or skin stretched over one or both ends. The most common type of membranophone is the hand drum.

2. Chordophones: These drums have strings stretched across them. The most common type of chordophone is the zither.

3. Aerophones: These drums produce sound through the vibration of air. The most common type of aerophone is the flute.

4. Electrophones: These drums produce sound through the use of electricity. The most common type of electrophone is the keyboard

.1 Senegal

Folk drum music is an important part of the musical traditions of many cultures around the world. In Senegal, for example, folk drumming is used to communicate between villages, and to mark important events such as weddings and funerals.

The best folk drum music from around the world showcases the great variety of rhythms and sounds that can be created with this simple instrument. Whether you’re looking for something to dance to or simply enjoy listening to, there’s sure to be a folk drumming style that you’ll love.

.2 Ghana

Ghana is a country in West Africa with a rich history of drumming and dancing. The traditional music of Ghana is based on drums, which are used to communicate messages, express emotions, and provide accompaniment for dancers.

There are several different types of drums used in Ghanaian music, each with its own name and function. The most important type of drum is the talking drum, which is used to communicate messages over long distances. Talking drums are usually played by pairs of drummers who mimic the sound of speech by varying the tension on the drumhead.

Other types of drums include the lead drum, which sets the tempo for a performance; the rhythm drum, which keeps time; and the bass drum, which provides a deep, steady beat. Ghanaian musicians often use bells, gourds, rattles, and other percussion instruments to add variety to their music.

.3 Mali

Mali is home to some of the best folk drum music in the world. The music is characterized by its use of traditional drums, such as the djembe, and its focus on rhythm and groove. Mali’s folk drum music has been influenced by a number of different cultures, including the Tuareg, Mande, Songhay, and Hausa.

Asia

Some of the best folk drum music in the world comes from Asia. There is a wide variety of music from this region, and it is often very upbeat and energetic. One of the most popular genres is gamelan, which originated in Indonesia. This music features a unique blend of instruments, including drums, gongs, and metal xylophones. Other popular types of Asian folk music include taiko (from Japan) and dholak (from India).

.1 India

India has a vast and varied musical heritage. India’s folk music is as diverse as its people. From the Hindustani music of the north to the Carnatic music of the south, there is a wealth of traditional music to be found in India.

One of the most popular folk genres in India is Sufi music. Sufi music is inspired by the verses of Sufi saints and is often based on themes of love and longing. Sufi music is usually played on harmoniums and dholaks ( drums). It is often accompanied by qawwali, a form of devotional singing.

Another popular form of Indian folk music is Bhangra. Bhangra originated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. It is a lively dance music that is often played on dhols (drums) and bhangra giddhas (traditional Punjab drums).

Indian folk music has also been influenced by Bollywood films. Bollywood films are known for their lavish song-and-dance sequences, which often feature famous playback singers lip syncing to the songs. This has led to a rise in popularity of playback singing in India, with many aspiring singers taking up this form of expression.

.2 China

When it comes to folk drum music, China has a lot to offer. From the traditional to the more contemporary, there is something for everyone.

One of the most popular types of folk drum music in China is bhangra. This upbeat, fast-paced music is perfect for getting your feet moving and your heart pumping. Bhangra is typically accompanied by dancers who wear brightly colored costumes and perform energetic moves. If you’re looking for a workout, bhangra is definitely the way to go.

Another popular type of folk drum music in China is Peking opera. This traditional form of Chinese opera dates back centuries and is known for its dramatic storylines and beautiful costumes. Peking opera is usually accompanied by a small orchestra, which includes instruments such as drums, gongs, and cymbals. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, Peking opera might be just what you need.

No matter what type of folk drum music you’re looking for, China has something to offer. So get out there and start exploring!

.3 Japan

Taiko is a type of Japanese drum that ranges in size from small hand-held drums to large drums that are stood on and played with sticks. Taiko are usually made of wood and animal skin, and they have a deep, resonate sound. Taiko drumming is often used in theatrical performances, festivals, and religious ceremonies.

The Americas

The United States and Canada are home to some of the best folk drum music in the world. From the traditional music of the Native Americans to the contemporary sounds of today, there is a rich history of folk drumming in these countries.

Some of the most popular folk drums from the Americas include the powwow drum, the bodhran, and the Iroquois water drum. Powwow drums are large, hand-held drums that are used to keep time while singing and dancing. Bodhrans are smaller, frame drums that originated in Ireland and are often used in Celtic music. Iroquois water drums are hollowed-out logs that are filled with water and played with sticks.

.1 Brazil

The best folk drum music from around the world comes from a variety of different cultures. One of the most popular types of folk drumming is Brazilian. This type of drumming usually features a variety of different percussion instruments, such as congas, bongos, tamborims, and ganzás.

Brazilian folk drumming is often used to provide accompaniment for traditional dances, such as the samba and the capoeira. Drummers will often play intricate rhythms that help to keep dancers on beat. In addition to providing accompaniment, Brazilian folk drums can also be used to produce solo performances.

One of the most popular Brazilian drums is the surdo. This type of drum is usually played with a mallet in order to produce a deep, resonant sound. Surdos are typically used to keep time during samba rehearsals and performances. Another popular Brazilian drum is the repinique, which is a small hand-held drum that is played with sticks.

Repiniques are typically used to provide accents and breaks in the rhythm. Tamborims are another type of Brazilian drum that are often used in samba music. These drums are small and high-pitched, and they are typically played with sticks or brushes.

.2 Cuba

Cuba has a rich history of folk music, which has been influenced by a variety of cultures over the years. Cuban folk music is often lively and upbeat, making it perfect for dancing. Drumming is a key part of Cuban folk music, and there are a variety of traditional drums that are used in this type of music.

The cajón is a box-shaped drum that is traditionally used in Afro-Cuban music. This type of drum can be played with either the hands or sticks, and it produces a range of different sounds depending on how it is played. The bongos are another type of traditional Cuban drum, which are two small drums that are played with the hands. These drums produce a high-pitched sound that is perfect for adding to the rhythm of Cuban folk music.

.3 Peru

3. Peru – Land of the Rising Sun

If you are a fan of Latin American music, then you have probably heard of Peru. This South American country is home to some of the most popular Latin American music styles, including salsa, cumbia, and reggaeton. But did you know that Peru is also home to a folk drumming tradition that is centuries old?

Peruvian folk drums are some of the most unique in the world. They are made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and even plastic. The most common type of Peruvian folk drum is the cajon, which is a box-shaped drum that is played with the hands.

Peruvian folk drums are used for a variety of purposes, including religious ceremonies, celebrations, and even as a form of therapy. In recent years, they have become popular among musicians all over the world. If you are looking for something new and different to add to your music collection, then be sure to check out some Peruvian folk drums.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best folk drumming music from around the world. From the traditional beats of Japan and Ireland to the more modern sounds of India and Africa, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Did we miss your favorite type of folk drumming music? Let us know in the comments below.

The Best Folk Drum Music From Around the World

Introduction