The tambourine is one of the most recognizable percussion instruments in the world. It is a shallow drum-like instrument, usually circular, with metal jingles or small cymbals attached to the sides. It is played by shaking, striking, or hitting it with the hand or with a stick. The tambourine has a rich history and has evolved over time to become the instrument we know today.
Origins
The origins of the tambourine can be traced back to ancient civilizations. It is believed that the tambourine may have originated in the Middle East, where it was used by nomadic tribes for music and dance. It was also used in religious ceremonies and was considered a sacred instrument. The tambourine was also used by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians.
The Tambourine in the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, the tambourine began to gain popularity in Europe. It was used in church music and was played by groups of musicians who traveled from town to town. The tambourine was also used in secular music, particularly in folk music and dance.
The Tambourine in the Renaissance
In the Renaissance period, the tambourine continued to be used in church music, but it was also used in secular music. It was often played with other percussion instruments such as the drum and the cymbal. The tambourine was also used in ballets and operas.
The Tambourine in the Baroque Period
The Baroque period saw the emergence of the tambourine as a solo instrument. It was often used in concertos and other instrumental music. The tambourine was also used in orchestral music, particularly in the music of the Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi.
The Tambourine in the Classical Period
In the Classical period, the tambourine continued to be used in orchestral music, but it was also used in chamber music and solo music. The tambourine was often used in music that imitated the style of Turkish military music, which was popular at the time.
The Tambourine in the Romantic Period
The Romantic period saw a resurgence of interest in folk music, and the tambourine was often used in this music. It was also used in ballets and operas, particularly those with exotic themes. The tambourine was often used to create a sense of drama and excitement in the music.
The Tambourine in the 20th Century
In the 20th century, the tambourine continued to be used in a wide variety of music. It was used in jazz music, particularly in the music of Latin American musicians such as Tito Puente. The tambourine was also used in rock music, particularly in the music of the 1960s and 1970s. It was often used to create a sense of rhythm and excitement in the music.
Playing Techniques
The tambourine has also evolved in terms of its playing techniques. Middle Ages, it was often played by shaking it or hitting it with the hand. In the Renaissance and Baroque periods, it was often played with a stick or mallet. In the 20th century, new playing techniques were developed, such as the thumb roll and the finger roll.
Conclusion
The tambourine is a versatile and highly recognizable percussion instrument that has evolved over time. It has been used in a wide variety of music, from church music to folk music to rock music. The tambourine has gone through various design changes, has been made from a wide variety of materials, and has evolved in terms of its playing techniques. Despite these changes, the tambourine remains a popular and important instrument in contemporary music.