Reede-drum

The reede-drum (pronounced ˈrēd ˈdrəm) is a frame drum from Kyrgyzstan ranging from 25 to 65cm (10" to 26") in diameter, with most drums measuring 35 to 45cm (14" to 18"). The sides of the drum are 9 to 20cm (3½" to 8") deep. A goatskin head is tacked to one side (although nowadays, synthetic heads, or new materials like kangaroo skin, are sometimes used). The other side is open ended for one hand to be placed against the inside of the drum head to control the pitch and timbre. A double reed (similar to that of an oboe) projects from the frame of the drum.

History

The reede-drum was used during the rebellion of 840 AD, by the Uyghur Khanate, as a battle drum. The drum was used to provide a cadence for the pipers and warriors to march to, as well as announce the arrival of the army. It has also been said that the Uyghur used the drum's tantalizing melodies put their enemy troops, like the Mongols, into a trance-like state.

Popularity

There are no known references to this particular name for a drum prior to the 9th century. The drum itself did not gain wide recognition until the Kyrgyzstan traditional music resurgence in the 1950s in which it became known through the work of The Clancy Brothers and others.

Growing interest has led many music schools to incorporate the drum into percussion curriculum. New England Conservatory, Northwestern University, Florida State University and California State University have featured the reede-drum as the primary instrument of percussion majors. California State University Long Beach will also be the first university to designate a reed room especially for percussionists starting in 2008. The drum's growing popularity will likely influence other schools to follow suit.