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MizikPam.com Haitian Music Instruments: The Tanbou - Haitian Drum

A look at the Haitian Drum and the origins of sounds from some regions of Haiti.

The Haitian drum (tanbou) is an important instrument to preserve and play. Without the drum, our culture would be lost. The lineage of the Haitian drum is complex, originating in Africa’s Vodun systems. A drum must be crafted properly and baptized in order to sound good and do the job. I met a man from Nigeria who was studying drum history in Haiti. He was delighted and surprised to hear the Banda- rhythm was being kept alive by Haitian drummers since he claimed it was no longer used in Nigeria. Haiti is a hotbed for African drumming. Popular focus is typically on Cuba- and Brazil -- but our rhythms are a well-kept secret.

Haitian drums are fun to play, producing an organic, versatile sound that can be used for dance, professional recording, healing and merry making. I use my drums to play all kinds of styles. Kids love them too.

The drum has survived centuries and those who use it should do so seriously. My drum collection is very important to me; some are from the oldest temples in Haiti. The older the drum, the better the sound!

There are several varieties of Haitian drums each with an African origin and distinct family of rhythms (see below/click Read More/Source). Most rhythms require 3 drummers. Rada for example is always played with three drums including the Manman, Segon and a Boula. It all depends on what part of Haiti and how the tradition manifested.

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Tabou Combo - A la Canne a Sucre - 1971

Tracks:

1. Pression D'Haiti

2. Hot Pants

3. Bon Anniversaire

4. Compas L

5. Kokobe

6. Manou

7. Je T'ai Perdue