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What are steel tongue drums used for

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If you’ve ever wondered what those oddly shaped steel drums are used for, wonder no more! Steel tongue drums are actually quite versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, from providing soothing background music to enhancing your yoga practice. Read on to learn more about this fascinating instrument.

Steel tongue drums and their many uses


Steel tongue drums, also known as hank drums, tank drums, or log drums, are percussion instruments consisting of a steel shell with one or more tongues, or metal plates, suspended inside. The steel tongue drum is played with the hands, using mallets or drumsticks. The striking surface of the steel tongue drum produces a soft, mellow sound that is similar to a bell.

Steel tongue drums are used in a variety of musical genres, including jazz, rock, blues, country, and hip-hop. They are also popular in therapeutic and healing settings. The soothing sound of the steel tongue drum can be used to promote relaxation, ease anxiety and stress, and improve sleep quality.

The history of steel tongue drums

steel tongue drum (45)
steel tongue drum (45)


The steel tongue drum is a modern version of an instrument that has been around for centuries. Also known as hank drums, tank drums, or hand pans, these instruments have been used for everything from shamanic rituals to healing ceremonies. The earliest recorded use of steel tongue drums dates back to the 12th century, when they were used by the Chinese for healing purposes.

In recent years, steel tongue drums have gained popularity as a tool for meditation and stress relief. Their calming tones and easy-to-play nature make them ideal for beginners and experienced meditators alike. Steel tongue drums can be played with your hands or with mallets, and they can be placed on your lap or on a table.

How to make your own steel tongue drum

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own steel tongue drum, here’s a great tutorial. Steel tongue drums are musical instruments that produce a variety of sounds, depending on how they’re played. They can be used for meditation, relaxation, or simply for making beautiful music.

This tutorial will show you everything you need to know in order to make your own steel tongue drum. You’ll need a few supplies, including a steel drum, a hammer, and some chisels. Once you have your materials gathered, follow the instructions below to create your very own steel tongue drum.

The best steel tongue drums on the market


When it comes to finding the best steel tongue drums on the market, there are a few things you need to take into account. First of all, you need to decide what size you need. Steel tongue drums come in a variety of sizes, from small hand drums to large floor drums. The size you choose will depend on what you plan to use the drum for. Music therapists often recommend larger drums for groups, while smaller drums are better for individual use.

Once you’ve decided on the size of drum you need, it’s time to start looking at different brands and models. There are a lot of different steel tongue drums on the market, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Read online reviews, compare prices, and look for any special features that might be important to you.

Once you’ve found a few different steel tongue drums that seem like they might be a good fit, it’s time to start trying them out. The best way to find the perfect steel tongue drum for your needs is to simply try out as many as you can until you find one that feels right. Every person is different, so what feels good for one person might not be ideal for another. However, by trying out several different options, you’re sure to find the perfect steel tongue drum for your needs.

How to play the steel tongue drum

steel tongue drum (44)
steel tongue drum (44)


Steel tongue drums are played by hitting the tongues with your hands or mallets. You can produce a wide range of sounds, from gentle raindrops to thunderous roars. You can also create beautiful chords and melodies.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

-Start by exploring the different sounds each tongue produces. Experiment with different types of strokes (soft, hard, continuous, etc.) to see what kinds of sounds you can create.
-Once you’re familiar with the individual sounds, try creating simple rhythms by hitting two or more tongues in succession. Gradually increase the complexity of your rhythms as you become more comfortable playing.
-You can also create melodies by playing individual notes in succession. Start with simple melodies and then try making up your own.
-There are no right or wrong ways to play steel tongue drums – have fun and experiment!

The many benefits of playing the steel tongue drum


The steel tongue drum is a very versatile instrument that can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Many people find that the drum can be used as a tool for relaxation, meditation, and stress relief. The unique sound of the steel tongue drum can also be used to create a sense of calm and peace.

The steel tongue drum can also be used as a musical instrument. The drum can be played solo or with other instruments to create a variety of different sounds. The steel tongue drum can also be used to create rhythms and beats that can be used for dancing or other forms of movement.

In addition to being a musical instrument, the steel tongue drum can also be used as a visual aid. The unique shape and design of the drum can help to create an image or symbol that can be used for healing or other spiritual purposes.

The different types of steel tongue drums


There are many different types of steel tongue drums, each with their own unique sound and range of tones. Here are some of the most popular types:

-The Hang: originating from Switzerland, the Hang is a deeply resonant instrument with a wide range of tones. It is often used for meditation, relaxation, and healing.

-The Tank: also known as the Hand Pan, this drum is played with the hands instead of sticks. It has a wide range of tones and can be used for various genres of music.

-The doom Tongue Drum: created by artist Daniel Brouse, this drum is made with two crescent shaped pieces of metal that produce a deep, ominous sound. It is often used in dark ambient or drone music.

-The Toumbek: a traditional African drum that is played with sticks. It has a deep, resonant sound and is often used in tribal or ceremonial music.

The future of steel tongue drums


While many people may not have heard of steel tongue drums, they are quickly becoming popular instruments for a wide range of music lovers. These unique drums are made from steel and have a series of tongues or notes cut into the top. They are played with the hands or mallets, and each note is produced by striking the corresponding tongue.

Steel tongue drums offer a wide range of possibilities for different sounds and tones, making them perfect for both solo and ensemble playing. They are also relatively easy to learn how to play, which makes them ideal for anyone who wants to try something new.

The future of steel tongue drums is looking very bright, as more and more people are discovering their unique sound and capabilities. With their growing popularity, it is likely that we will see even more innovative uses for these versatile instruments in the years to come.

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