Are drums percussion instruments? How can a musical instrument be considered as percussion? As we all know that drums are the most famous musical instrument in the music industry, it is also maybe the most popular percussion instrument. So, why is it considered as one? Join us and let’s check out the reasons.
How Can A Musical Instrument Be Considered As A Percussion Instrument
Musical instruments can be classified into several categories, one of which is percussion. Percussion instruments are those that are played by striking, shaking, or scraping to produce sound. Percussion instruments can be found in almost every style of music, from classical to contemporary, and they are often used to provide rhythm and texture to a musical composition. In this article, we will explore what makes an instrument a percussion instrument.
First, it is important to understand what percussion means. The word percussion comes from Latin, which means “to strike.” Therefore, percussion instruments are those that are played by striking them in some way. This can include hitting them with the hands, fingers, or a stick, or striking them with a mallet or a hammer.
To be considered a percussion instrument, an instrument must produce sound through the act of striking. This means that instruments that produce sound through blowing or plucking, such as the flute or guitar, are not percussion instruments. However, some instruments, such as the piano or harp, are classified as both percussion and string instruments because they have strings that are struck by hammers.
There are several types of percussion instruments, including membranophones, idiophones, and chordophones. Membranophones are percussion instruments that have a stretched membrane or skin that vibrates to produce sound. Examples of membranophones include the drum set, congas, and bongos.
Idiophones are percussion instruments that produce sound through the vibration of the entire instrument itself. Examples of idiophones include the maracas, cowbells, and triangles.
Chordophones are instruments that produce sound through the vibration of strings. While chordophones are typically classified as string instruments, some, like the piano, are also considered percussion instruments because the strings are struck by hammers.
Another important factor in determining whether an instrument is a percussion instrument is its function in a musical composition. Percussion instruments are often used to provide rhythm and texture to a musical piece. They are used to accentuate beats and to provide a foundation for other instruments to build upon. Percussion instruments can also be used to create sound effects, such as thunder or footsteps.
In the end, a musical instrument can be considered a percussion instrument if it produces sound through the act of striking and is used to provide rhythm and texture in a musical composition. Percussion instruments can be found in almost every style of music, and they are an important part of the musical landscape. Understanding what makes an instrument a percussion instrument can help us appreciate the role they play in the creation of music.
How And Why Are Drums Considered As A Percussion Instrument
So, are drums percussion instruments? Drums are one of the most widely recognized and ubiquitous percussion instruments in the world. They have been used in music for thousands of years and can be found in almost every culture and genre of music. In this article, we will explore how and why drums are considered percussion instruments.
One of the main reasons why the drums are considered as percussion instruments is because they are played by striking them with the hands or with drumsticks, which causes the drumhead to vibrate and produce sound. The basic design of a drum consists of a cylindrical or circular shell, which can be made of wood, metal, or other materials, with a drumhead stretched over one or both ends. The drumhead is typically made of animal skin or synthetic material and is tuned by tightening or loosening the tension rods that hold it in place.
Drums can be categorized into two main types: membranophones and idiophones. Membranophones, as mentioned earlier, are percussion instruments that have a stretched membrane or skin that vibrates to produce sound. This category includes snare drums, bass drums, and tom-toms. Idiophones are percussion instruments that produce sound through the vibration of the entire instrument itself, such as cymbals and bells.
The next reason why drums are considered percussion instruments by many is their ability to provide rhythm and texture to the music. The beat of a drum can help to keep time and create a sense of momentum and energy in a musical composition. In some styles of music, such as rock and pop, the drumbeat is often the driving force behind the song, providing a solid foundation for the other instruments and vocals to build upon.
Another reason why drums are considered percussion instruments is their versatility. Drums can be played in a variety of styles and techniques, from simple rhythms to complex patterns and fills. They can be used to create different moods and emotions in a musical composition, from the intense and dramatic to the soft and subtle. They can also be used to create sound effects, such as the sound of thunder or a galloping horse.
Drums are also popular because they are relatively easy to learn and play. Unlike some other instruments, such as the violin or saxophone, which require a great deal of skill and practice to play well, drums can be learned quickly and easily. This makes them accessible to musicians of all skill levels and ages.
In addition, drums are an integral part of many cultures and traditions around the world. They are used in religious ceremonies, cultural festivals, and social events. For example, in African cultures, drums are often used to communicate across long distances, while in Native American cultures, they are used in healing ceremonies and to connect with the spirits. Drums have also played an important role in military and marching bands, where they are used to keep soldiers in step and provide a sense of unity and discipline.
So, when someone asks if you are drums percussion, then you should say yes as drums are played by striking or shaking, and their sound is created through physical contact between the instrument and a striking implement. Drums provide rhythm and texture to music, are versatile and accessible to musicians of all skill levels, and are an integral part of many cultures and traditions around the world. Whether playing in a rock band or participating in a cultural ceremony, the sound and power of drums have the ability to move and inspire people in profound ways.
Examples Of Membranophones And Idiophones
As we already know that membranophones are those percussion instruments that have a stretched membrane or skin that vibrates to produce sound while the idiophones are the percussion instruments that produce sound through the vibration of the entire instrument itself, here are some of the other examples of these two categories:
Membranophones
When it comes to examples of membranophones, the snare drum, bass drum, timpani, bongos, and taiko drums are really the ones that come to my mind; however, there are still many out there that you should check out.
Idiophones
On the other hand, cymbals, triangles, cowbells, guiro, and maracas are the most typical examples when it comes to idiophones. However, there are still many idiophones out there that you should personally discover on your own.
So, are drums percussion instruments? Yes, drums are percussion instruments as they are played by striking them with the hands or with drumsticks, which causes the drumhead to vibrate and produce sound.
