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Who invented the steel tongue drum

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The steel tongue drum is a fascinating instrument with a long and rich history. It is said to have been invented by the Chinese over 3,000 years ago, and it has been used in various cultures all over the world ever since.

The steel tongue drum is a beautiful and unique instrument that has the ability to create a wide range of sounds. It is perfect for those who enjoy music and want to learn a new and exciting instrument.

The history of the steel tongue drum

orange steel tongue drum in the winter snowy forest, vaattunki, finland.


The steel tongue drum is a percussion instrument that originated in Haiti. It is similar to a steelpan in that it is made from a steel barrel that has been cut in half and turned upside down. The drum is played with two sticks, one in each hand, and the player strikes the tongues of the drum to create a variety of rhythms.

The steel tongue drum was invented in the early 1900s by Haitian musician Levi Fradin. It was originally used as a traditional Haitian folk instrument, but has since gained popularity in other genres of music such as jazz, rock, and blues.

How the steel tongue drum is made

The steel tongue drum is a percussion instrument that originated in Asia. It is made from a steel barrel that is cut in half and then drilled with holes of different sizes. The drum is played with two sticks, one for each hand. The player strikes the tongue with the stick to create a sound.

The steel tongue drum was invented by an unknown person in Asia. It is not clear when or where the first steel tongue drum was made. Steel drums were used in Asia for centuries before they were introduced to the West.

The first steel tongue drums were made in the United States in the early 1900s. They were used in vaudeville shows and on early radio programs. The steel tongue drum became popular in the United States in the 1950s, when it was used in jazz and rock music.

The different types of steel tongue drums

There are several different types of steel tongue drums, each with its own unique sound. The most common type is the hand pan, which has a round, concave shape and is played with the hands. Other popular types include the gong drum, which has a large central dome, and the slit drum, which has a long slit down the center.

Steel tongue drums are made from a variety of materials, but the most common type is made from stainless steel. Other popular materials include aluminum, copper, and bronze. The material you choose will determine the sound of your drum, so it’s important to choose carefully.

Steel tongue drums can be played with a variety of methods, including mallets, sticks, or even your hands. The size and shape of your drum will also dictate how you play it. For example, hand pans are typically played with the palms and fingers, while gong drums are usually struck with mallets.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing therapeutic tool or a fun musical instrument, steel tongue drums offer a unique and beautiful sound that is perfect for any occasion.

The benefits of playing the steel tongue drum

steel tongue drum (36)


The steel tongue drum is a musical instrument that has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique sound and the fact that it is very easy to play. The steel tongue drum originated in Asia, and it is said that the first steel tongue drums were made in China.

The steel tongue drum is played by striking the tongue with a mallet. The sound of the steel tongue drum is said to be soothing and relaxing, and many people enjoy playing the steel tongue drum for its therapeutic benefits. Playing the steel tongue drum can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and it can also help to promote relaxation.

The best way to learn how to play the steel tongue drum


When you’re first learning how to play the steel tongue drum, it’s important to find a method that works best for you. Some people prefer to read music, while others prefer to learn by ear. There are also a number of different ways to hold the drum, depending on your preference.

One of the best ways to learn how to play the steel tongue drum is by finding a teacher or taking a class. This way, you can get one-on-one instruction and guidance on how to hold the drum, how to strike the tongues, and how to produce different sounds and rhythms.

If you’re not able to take a class, there are still a number of ways you can learn how to play the steel tongue drum on your own. One option is to find online video lessons or tutorials that can walk you through the basics of playing the instrument.

Another option is to purchase a method book or instructional DVD that will provide step-by-step guidance on how to play the steel tongue drum. These books and DVDs often include audio and visual demonstrations that can be helpful in learning how to produce different sounds on the instrument.

Whatever method you choose, be sure to practice regularly so that you can master the skills necessary to play the steel tongue drum beautifully.

The different techniques used to play the steel tongue drum

The steel tongue drum is a relatively new instrument, having only been invented in the last few decades. However, there are already a variety of different techniques that have been developed for playing it. Here are some of the most common:

-Tapping: This is the most basic way to play the steel tongue drum, and simply involves striking the tongues with your fingers.
-Stroking: This technique involves running your fingers along the tongues, causing them to vibrate and produce a more sustained sound.
-Bowing: This is similar to stroking, but instead of using your fingers, you use a bow. This produces a even more sustained sound.
-Mallets: Mallets can be made from a variety of materials, but they all serve the same purpose – striking the tongues to produce sound.

The different genres of music that can be played on the steel tongue drum

The steel tongue drum is a type of percussion instrument that can be used to play a variety of genres of music. Some of the genres that can be played on the steel tongue drum include:

-Jazz
-Blues
-Rock
-Funk
-Reggae

  • Hip hop

The steel tongue drum originated in Asia, and has been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including ceremonial and spiritual rituals. The steel tongue drum gained popularity in the West in the early 21st century, and has since been used by a wide range of musicians.

The different ways the steel tongue drum can be used

The steel tongue drum can be used for a variety of purposes. It can be used for musical purposes, such as playing songs or creating beats. It can also be used for therapeutic purposes, such as relaxation or meditation. Additionally, the steel tongue drum can be used as a tool for instruction, such as teaching children about rhythm and melody.

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