Showing 10–17 of 17 results
Showing 10–17 of 17 results
Frame drums: A timeless percussion instrument
The frame drum has been played for thousands of years across every continent. Characterised by its shallow circular drum frame and single drumhead, this versatile instrument appears in cultures throughout North Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and native America.Historically, frame drums accompanied rituals, religious ceremonies and cultural celebrations. In many cultures, frame drums feature in folk music and orchestral percussion, as well as sound healing and meditation.
Despite their simple construction, frame drums produce an impressive range of sounds. Players can create deep bass tones, crisp rim strikes and subtle finger rolls using only their hands or fingertips. Their lightweight design makes them highly portable – great for travel and workshops.
Our collection of frame drums includes best sellers like the Remo Buffalo Drums, Remo Renaissance Drums, Remo Ocean Drums and Meinl Wave Drum.
Frame drum FAQs
Whether you’re purchasing your first frame drum or expanding your percussion collection, here are answers to some of the most common questions.What is a frame drum?
A frame drum is a percussion instrument consisting of a shallow circular drum frame with a drumhead stretched across one side. Unlike deeper drums, the shell is relatively narrow, allowing for excellent resonance while remaining lightweight and easy to hold.How do you play a frame drum?
Frame drums are played either by hand using the fingers, palms and thumbs, or with a mallet. Different striking techniques create a wide range of tones, from deep bass sounds to crisp accents and delicate rolls. Some styles also incorporate shaking or tapping the frame to create additional textures.What are frame drums used for?
Throughout history, frame drums have played an important role in cultural and spiritual life. They were commonly used during religious ceremonies, festivals, dances and community celebrations, while in some ancient cultures they accompanied fertility rituals and goddess worship.Over the centuries, frame drums also found their way into military life, where larger drums helped signal troops and keep marching rhythms. (The musical frame drums we stock today are traditional percussion instruments rather than military drums.)
Today, frame drums remain popular in folk music, world music, orchestral performance, sound healing, meditation and contemporary percussion.
Where do frame drums come from?
Frame drums are found in cultures around the world, each with its own distinctive playing style and traditions. Some of the best-known examples include the Irish bodhrán, Middle Eastern daf and riq, North African bendir, Brazilian pandeiro, Indian kanjira, and Native American hoop drum.These instruments vary in size, materials and playing techniques, but all share the same fundamental drum frame construction that has endured for thousands of years.
Are frame drums suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The frame drum is one of the most approachable percussion instruments to learn. Beginners can quickly produce satisfying rhythms while more experienced players can explore advanced hand techniques and complex rhythmic patterns.Which frame drum should I choose?
Your ideal frame drum depends on how you intend to use it. Smaller drums offer higher pitches and excellent portability, while larger frame drums produce deeper, fuller tones that are popular for meditation, performance and sound healing. Our premium Remo, Meinl and Schlagwerk frame drums offer exceptional sound quality for players of all experience levels.Frame drums shipping & returns
We offer fast shipping, free for orders over $150. Plus, a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll happily give you a full refund.Returns must be well packed and returned in their original condition within 30 days. We’ll even pay return postage.