Profile of the Bongo Drum

Name of Instrument:

Bongo drum

Family:

Percussion

Types:

The folk drums of Cuba are generally called bongos. Bongos have two drumheads and is played by striking the heel of the hands and/or fingertips on the drumhead. Nowadays, there are bongos that have adjustable drumheads.

First Known Bongo Drums:

The bongo drum came about during the 1900's in Cuba and was used for Latin-American music. It is believed to have evolved from the drums used in the Abakua Religion of Cuba. Some say that bongos also have roots from Africa. Nowadays, bongo drums are mostly used in world music.

Notable Musicians Who Use Bongos:

Some music groups who use the bongo drum are Septeto Nacional and Sexteto Habanero. Artists such as Ricky Martin also use the bongo in his music.

Additional Bongo Drum Resource:

Bongos from KidzWorld