Drum

Definition

A drum is a percussion instrument that consists of a hollow cylindrical shell with a membrane stretched over one or both ends, which produces sound when struck. In the context of folk singing and storytelling, drums play a crucial role in setting the rhythm and enhancing the emotional expression of the performance, creating an engaging atmosphere for the audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Drums are often made from materials such as wood, metal, and animal skins, with each material affecting the sound quality.
2. In Lam Lao performances, the drum is typically played to complement the singing and to enhance the storytelling aspect of the music.
3. The rhythmic patterns created by drums can evoke various emotions and engage the audience more deeply in the narrative being told.
4. Drumming techniques can vary significantly based on regional traditions, with specific styles unique to Lao folk music.
5. Drums in Lam Lao are often accompanied by other instruments, like the khene (a bamboo mouth organ), which together create a rich musical experience.

Review Questions

• How does the use of drums enhance the storytelling aspect of Lam Lao performances?
  • The use of drums in Lam Lao performances enhances storytelling by providing a rhythmic foundation that helps convey the emotional nuances of the narrative. Drums create a dynamic interplay between rhythm and voice, engaging the audience and emphasizing key moments in the tale. This rhythmic support not only sets the pace but also heightens dramatic effects, making the stories more compelling.
• Discuss the significance of different materials used to make drums in Lam Lao music and their impact on sound quality.
  • Different materials used to construct drums significantly influence their sound quality in Lam Lao music. For instance, wooden shells produce warmer tones, while metal shells might create sharper sounds. The type of membrane stretched over the drum also alters its resonance and timbre. These variations in material can affect how well the drums blend with other instruments during performances, ultimately shaping the overall musical experience.
• Evaluate how the rhythmic patterns created by drums contribute to audience engagement during Lam Lao performances.
  • The rhythmic patterns created by drums play a pivotal role in audience engagement during Lam Lao performances by establishing a groove that draws listeners into the experience. These patterns help to maintain energy and excitement throughout the performance while also guiding emotional responses through changes in tempo and dynamics. The interaction between drumming rhythms and vocal delivery not only captivates audiences but also creates a shared communal experience that resonates deeply with cultural identity.

Related terms

Percussion: A category of musical instruments that produce sound when struck, shaken, or scraped, including drums, cymbals, and tambourines.

Lam: A traditional form of Lao folk music that combines singing and storytelling, often accompanied by instruments such as drums and bamboo flutes.

Rhythm: The pattern of sounds and silences in music, created by varying durations and accents, crucial for maintaining the pace in performances involving drums.