Tambourines are percussion instruments that have been used for centuries in various cultures around the world. They are often used in different musical genres, including classical music, folk music, rock music, and pop music. Tambourines are made with a variety of materials, each of which affects the sound and durability of the instrument. In this article, we will explore the materials used to make tambourines.
Wood
Wood is one of the most common materials used to make tambourines. The frame of the instrument is typically made from a hardwood such as birch, maple, or oak. These woods are durable and can withstand the pressure of the jingles without breaking or warping. The type of wood used can affect the sound of the tambourine, with softer woods producing a warmer sound and harder woods producing a brighter sound.
Animal Skin
Animal skin is another common material used to make tambourines. The skin is stretched tightly over the frame of the instrument and provides a surface for the jingles to strike against. The most commonly used animal skins are goat, calf, and sheep. These skins are durable and produce a warm, resonant sound when struck. The thickness and type of skin used can affect the sound of the tambourine, with thicker skins producing a deeper sound and thinner skins producing a brighter sound.
Metal
Metal is also commonly used to make tambourines. The jingles around the edge of the instrument are typically made from brass, bronze, or stainless steel. Then these metals are durable and produce a bright, ringing sound when struck. The thickness and size of the jingles can affect the sound of the tambourine, with larger jingles producing a louder sound and smaller jingles producing a more delicate sound.
Plastic
Plastic is a newer material used to make tambourines. The frame of the instrument is made from a durable plastic material that can withstand the pressure of the jingles without breaking or warping. The jingles are typically made from a metal or plastic material, depending on the desired sound. Then plastic tambourines are often more affordable than those made from wood or animal skin, making them popular with beginners and children.
Leather
Leather is another material that is sometimes used to make tambourines. Then the frame of the instrument is typically made from a hardwood, and the leather is stretched tightly over the frame to provide a surface for the jingles to strike against. Leather tambourines produce a warm, resonant sound and are often used in traditional folk music.
Felt
Felt is a less common material used to make tambourines. Then the frame of the instrument is typically made from a hardwood, and the felt is stretched tightly over the frame to provide a surface for the jingles to strike against. Felt tambourines produce a soft, muted sound and are often used in orchestral music and musical theater.
Synthetic Materials
In addition to natural materials, there are also synthetic materials used to make tambourines. The frame of the instrument can be made from a variety of synthetic materials, including plastic, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. Synthetic tambourines are often more durable than those made from natural materials and can produce a wide range of sounds depending on the type of material used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the materials used to make tambourines can greatly affect the sound and durability of the instrument. By understanding the properties of different materials, musicians can select the perfect tambourine to fit their needs and enhance their musical performances.