The Ethereal Drum: Its Past and Present
As its name suggests, the Ethereal Drum(steel tongue drum, tank drum, or hank drum) is a percussion instrument known for producing enchanting and distant tones. It is also referred to by various other names based on its materials and sound plate shapes, including “steel tongue drum,” “square tongue drum,” and “lotus drum.” Other names like “sorrow-free drum” and “colorful sound drum” reflect its ethereal auditory effects. Typically crafted from metals like stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and copper, the Ethereal Drum embodies a fusion of philosophy, religion, culture, art, and advanced craftsmanship, blending sound theory with innovative design. Those who hear it for the first time are often left spellbound, captivated by its ability to resonate deeply within the soul, leaving echoes that linger long after the final note has faded.
The Origins of the Ethereal Drum
The creation of the Ethereal Drum traces back to the ancient Chinese Zhou Dynasty, where it evolved from the chime bells known for their ethereal, profound, and rich sound quality. This instrument captures the essence of millennia of Chinese philosophy, religion, culture, art, and music, merging ancient wisdom with modern craftsmanship and design. As its popularity has grown, the Ethereal Drum has become increasingly beautiful and intricate, with a wider range of tones available. Today, professional-grade versions with 14 or 15 notes are available, suitable for serious performances.
The Aesthetic of the Ethereal Drum
The Ethereal Drum represents a modern twist on traditional ethnic instruments, characterized by its disc-shaped design which vibrates to produce sound. It is easy to learn, lacking the complexities of many other instruments, making it ideal for aspiring musicians. The Ethereal Drum incorporates features from handpans, marimbas, and tongue drums, resulting in a unique percussion experience. The drum itself takes on a flattened oval shape and is available in variations of 6, 8, 11, 13, and 15 notes.
Choosing Your Ethereal Drum
When selecting an Ethereal Drum, consider the following factors:
Tuning: The most critical aspect of purchasing an Ethereal Drum is assessing its tuning. A well-tuned drum will have an accuracy within ±5 cents, which falls within the professional performance range. I recommend the Ethereal Drums produced by HIPATTI x FANTE, known for their exceptional tuning quality.
Resonance Range: If you notice a significant change in pitch or tone when playing with increased intensity, this may indicate an issue with the drum’s resonance range.
Cross-Talk: When striking a particular note, if other areas of the drum resonate, creating a muddled sound, this indicates a problem with cross-talk that detracts from the drum's intended ethereal clarity.
Caring for Your Ethereal Drum
Utilize protective coverings such as rubber rings, hemp fabric, or non-woven strips. When playing, position the drum on your legs, a braided mat, a sponge pad, or a proper stand to keep it off direct contact with the ground.
Avoid contact with corrosive liquids such as alcohol or cleaning agents; if spilled, wipe it away immediately. Additionally, since sweat can corrode the drum, remember to clean it with a dry non-woven or cotton cloth after playing.
Keep the drum away from fire, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, and prevent it from being subjected to extreme cold. These conditions can alter the drum's tuning.
Avoid leaving the drum inside a bag for extended periods; ensure it has adequate ventilation. Most importantly, never drop or strike the drum forcefully, as this can lead to tuning issues.
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