Bongo drums are a captivating and unique percussion instrument that have found their way into various musical genres around the world. Their distinct sound and compact size make them a favorite among musicians. But have you ever wondered what these fascinating drums are made of? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the materials that go into crafting a bongo drum, exploring everything from the shells to the heads and the hardware that holds it all together.
The Shells
Wood Selection
The shells of bongo drums are typically made from wood, and the choice of wood is crucial as it significantly impacts the drum’s tone. Common types of wood used include mahogany, oak, and maple. Mahogany, for example, is highly regarded for its warm and rich sound qualities. It has a natural resonance that can produce deep, full tones when the drum is struck. Oak, on the other hand, offers a bit more brightness and projection in the sound. Maple is known for its balanced tone, with a good blend of warmth and clarity. These different woods are carefully selected based on the desired sound characteristics of the bongo drum.
Shaping the Shells
Once the wood is chosen, it needs to be shaped into the characteristic bongo drum form. The shells are usually carved or lathed to achieve the correct shape. Bongo drums consist of two drums of different sizes, with the larger one typically referred to as the hembra (female) and the smaller as the macho (male). The shells are hollowed out to create a resonating chamber. Skilled craftsmen use traditional woodworking tools and techniques to ensure that the walls of the shells are of uniform thickness. This uniformity is essential for producing a consistent and balanced sound. If the walls are too thick in some areas, it can dampen the resonance, while if they are too thin, the drum may be more prone to cracking and the sound may lack depth.
The Drum Heads
Animal Skin Drum Heads
Historically, bongo drum heads were made from animal skins. Goatskin was a popular choice due to its durability and ability to produce a rich, warm sound. The process of preparing goatskin for drum heads is quite involved. First, the skin is carefully removed from the animal and cleaned thoroughly to remove any flesh or impurities. Then, it is stretched and dried under controlled conditions. This stretching helps to tighten the skin and make it suitable for use as a drum head. Once dried, the skin is further treated to make it more resistant to changes in humidity and temperature. Cowhide has also been used for bongo drum heads. Cowhide is generally thicker than goatskin, which can result in a slightly different tone. It may produce a more powerful and booming sound, but it also requires more force to produce the same pitch as a goatskin head.
Synthetic Drum Heads
In modern times, synthetic materials have become increasingly popular for bongo drum heads. Materials such as Mylar are commonly used. Mylar is a type of polyester film that offers several advantages over animal skins. It is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it a great choice for drummers who play frequently. Synthetic heads are also less affected by humidity and temperature changes. Animal skin heads can stretch or become loose in high humidity, while Mylar heads maintain their tension more consistently. Additionally, synthetic heads are often more affordable than high – quality animal skin heads. However, some purists argue that synthetic heads lack the natural warmth and character of animal skin heads. The sound produced by a synthetic head can be a bit more bright and “plasticky” compared to the rich, organic sound of an animal skin head.
The Hardware
Hoops
The hoops of a bongo drum play an important role in holding the drum head in place and also contribute to the overall sound. Hoops are typically made of metal, with steel and aluminum being common choices. Steel hoops are known for their strength and durability. They can withstand the tension applied when tuning the drum head and are less likely to bend or break. Aluminum hoops, on the other hand, are lighter in weight, which can be an advantage for drummers who need to carry their bongo drums around frequently. The hoops are designed to fit tightly around the edge of the drum shell and the drum head. They are usually held in place by tension rods.
Tension Rods and Tuning Mechanisms
Tension rods are used to adjust the tension of the drum head, which in turn affects the pitch of the drum. These rods are made of metal, often steel, and are threaded so that they can be screwed in or out. By tightening or loosening the tension rods, drummers can raise or lower the pitch of the bongo drum. Some bongo drums come with more advanced tuning mechanisms, such as fine – tuning screws. These allow for more precise adjustments to the tension and pitch. The tuning mechanisms are usually attached to the hoop and the drum shell, and they need to be well – constructed to ensure smooth and accurate tuning. If the tension rods or tuning mechanisms are of poor quality, it can be difficult to achieve the desired pitch or the tuning may not hold for long.
Connecting Hardware
Since bongo drums consist of two drums that are played together, there is hardware that connects the two shells. This connecting hardware can be made of metal, such as iron or steel. It is designed to hold the two drums securely in place so that they can be played as a unit. The connecting hardware needs to be strong enough to withstand the vibrations and forces generated during playing. It also needs to be adjustable in some cases, allowing drummers to position the two drums at a comfortable angle for playing.
Other Components
Rims
The rims of the bongo drums are the outer edges of the drum shells where the hoops rest. Rims are often made of the same wood as the drum shells. They are carefully finished to ensure a smooth surface for the hoops to sit on. The quality of the rims can affect the contact between the hoops and the shell, which in turn can impact the transfer of vibrations and the overall sound of the drum. If the rims are uneven or rough, it can cause the hoops to not sit properly, leading to inconsistent tuning and sound.
Cushions and Padding
Some bongo drums may have cushions or padding on the inside of the drum shells or around the connecting hardware. These cushions are usually made of materials like felt or foam. The purpose of the cushions is to dampen unwanted vibrations and reduce rattling noises. Felt, for example, is a soft and fibrous material that can effectively absorb vibrations. By placing felt cushions inside the drum shell, drummers can control the resonance and eliminate any unwanted overtones or buzzes. Foam padding can also be used to protect the drums from scratches and dents during transportation.
Conclusion
A bongo drum is made up of a variety of materials, each playing a crucial role in its sound and functionality. The choice of wood for the shells determines the fundamental tone, while the type of drum head, whether animal skin or synthetic, further shapes the sound characteristics. The hardware, including hoops, tension rods, and connecting components, is essential for holding the drum together and allowing for tuning. Other components like rims, cushions, and padding also contribute to the overall performance of the instrument. Whether you’re a professional musician or just starting to explore the world of bongo drums, understanding what these drums are made of can deepen your appreciation for their unique qualities and help you make informed decisions when choosing or maintaining your own bongo drums.
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