Tama (Talking Drum)
Drums
Tama (Talking Drum)
An hourglass-shaped drum that can mimic the tonal patterns of spoken Wolof. A true piece of living history.
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Materials
- Carved wood
- Goatskin
- Leather tension cords
Cultural Significance
The tama can replicate the tonal patterns of the Wolof language — it literally 'talks.' Historically used to communicate across distances and in griots' storytelling performances.
An hourglass-shaped drum that can mimic the tonal patterns of spoken Wolof. By squeezing the tension cords under the arm while striking, the player can make the drum rise and fall in pitch like human speech. A true piece of living history.