I. What is a Tambourine?
A tambourine is a percussion instrument consisting of a small, circular frame with pairs of metal jingles, or zils, attached to the edges. The frame is usually made of wood, plastic, or metal, and the jingles can be made of brass, steel, or other metals. The tambourine is played by shaking or striking it with the hand, and it is commonly used in various musical genres, including folk, rock, pop, and classical music.
II. History of the Tambourine
The tambourine has a long history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East and North Africa, where it was used in religious ceremonies and celebrations. The tambourine spread to Europe during the Middle Ages and became a popular instrument in folk music and dance.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the tambourine was used in classical music by composers such as Mozart and Beethoven. It also became a staple instrument in military bands and orchestras. In the 20th century, the tambourine gained popularity in popular music, especially in rock and roll, where it was used by bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
III. Parts of a Tambourine
A tambourine consists of several key parts:
1. Frame: The circular frame of the tambourine is typically made of wood, plastic, or metal. It provides the structure and support for the instrument.
2. Head: The head of the tambourine is the part that is struck or shaken. It is usually made of animal skin or synthetic material.
3. Jingles: The jingles, or zils, are small metal discs attached to the edges of the frame. They create the tambourine’s distinctive sound when they are struck or shaken.
4. Rim: The rim of the tambourine is the outer edge of the frame where the jingles are attached. It is often padded for comfort and to dampen vibrations.
IV. Playing Techniques for the Tambourine
There are several techniques for playing the tambourine, including:
1. Shake: The most common technique for playing the tambourine is to shake it back and forth, causing the jingles to create a ringing sound.
2. Strike: Another technique is to strike the head of the tambourine with the hand or fingers, producing a sharp, percussive sound.
3. Thumb roll: This technique involves rolling the thumb across the head of the tambourine to create a rapid, rolling sound.
4. Finger roll: Similar to the thumb roll, the finger roll technique involves rolling the fingers across the head of the tambourine to produce a rapid, rolling sound.
V. Types of Tambourines
There are several types of tambourines, each with its own unique characteristics:
1. Traditional tambourine: The traditional tambourine has a wooden frame and animal skin head. It is commonly used in folk music and dance.
2. Headless tambourine: The headless tambourine has a frame without a head, allowing the jingles to create a brighter, more metallic sound.
3. Riq: The riq is a Middle Eastern tambourine with a smaller frame and a row of jingles on both sides. It is often used in Arabic music.
4. Pandero: The pandero is a Spanish tambourine with a double row of jingles and a wooden frame. It is commonly used in flamenco music.
VI. Famous Songs Featuring the Tambourine
The tambourine has been featured in many famous songs across various genres. Some notable examples include:
1. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles: The tambourine plays a prominent role in this classic rock song, adding a rhythmic drive to the chorus.
2. “Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones: The tambourine is used to create a sense of urgency and tension in this iconic rock song.
3. “Hotel California” by The Eagles: The tambourine adds a shimmering quality to the intro and chorus of this classic rock ballad.
4. “I Will Follow” by U2: The tambourine provides a driving beat to this energetic rock song, enhancing the overall groove.
In conclusion, the tambourine is a versatile and widely used percussion instrument with a rich history and a variety of playing techniques. It has been a staple in music for centuries and continues to be a popular choice for musicians across different genres. Whether used in folk, rock, pop, or classical music, the tambourine adds a unique and vibrant sound to any musical composition.