The Kalakgu is a double-headed West African drum, traditionally played by the Hausa people of Nigeria. The kalangu is often called a "talking drum :" by changing the pitch of the drum kalangu players can imitate the tonal quality of various African languages. It is used to accompany religious chants, dancing, and local festivities, and to send messages.
Family |
Percussions |
Pitch range |
None. |
Material |
Wooden body, with hide drum head, and leather thongs. |
Size |
About 14 in (36 cm) long ; 7 in (18 cm) in diameter at each end ; and 3 in (8 cm) in diameter at the waist. |
Origins |
The kalangu originates from Nigeria, West Africa, where it is played by the Hausa people. It is used during farm work, at naming and wedding ceremonies, and to accompany dancing. Similar drums are used by neighboring peoples. |
Classification |
Membranophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of a stretched skin. |
And also... |
The kalangu used to be associated exclusively with Hausa butchers, who are the past and present patrons of kalangu drumming. |