- Tumbao
In music of afro-cuban origin, tumbao refers to the basic rhythm played on the tumbadoras and the bass.
Drum Pattern
The basic tumbao pattern is played on the
conga the drum is struck on every 8th-beat in the measure in the following sequence:There are many variations on the basic tumbao, including playing the tumba on the 3-side of the clave. For example:
Bass Pattern
The basic tumbao on the bass (Originally a
marimbula , later a contrabass or electric bass) is best visualized incut time to swing it correctly. It's notable in its avoidance of the down beat.
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