How to Make a Turkish Drum?
The Turkish drum is an indispensable part of rich traditional music and is present at many cultural events. Traditionally handmade, the process of making this drum requires the combination of the right materials and techniques. In this article, we will explore the stages of making a Turkish drum and the key points to consider.
1. Required Materials
To make a Turkish drum, you will need the following materials:
- Wooden Body: Generally, hardwoods like oak or beech are preferred. The body is a key component that affects the sound and durability of the drum.
- Skin Covering: Usually made from goat or cow skin. The skin covers the top of the drum and determines the quality of the sound.
- Stick: A stick made of wood or synthetic material used to play the drum.
- Connection Parts: String or metal rings to attach the skin to the body.
- Liquid Adhesive: To hold the skin and other components together.
2. Preparing the Drum Body
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Wood Selection: Hardwoods provide a strong and durable drum body. The wood should be dried and free from moisture.
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Body Cutting: The wood piece is cut into the desired dimensions. The height and diameter of the body affect the sound properties of the drum. Typically, the height is between 40-50 cm, and the diameter is between 30-40 cm.
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Sanding: The cut body is sanded to achieve a smooth surface. This makes the drum look more aesthetic.
3. Preparing the Skin
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Skin Selection: Choose cow or goat skin. The thickness and quality of the skin determine the drum’s sound.
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Skin Cutting: The skin should be cut according to the diameter of the drum. The cut skin should be large enough to completely cover the top of the body.
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Soaking the Skin: Soak the skin in water for a few hours to soften it. This makes the skin more flexible.
4. Attaching the Skin to the Body
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Connection Method: String or metal rings can be used to attach the skin to the body. The skin is placed on top of the drum and wrapped around with string to tighten it.
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Tightening: The skin should be tightly pulled over the top of the body. This enhances the sound quality of the drum.
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Gluing: Use liquid adhesive to strengthen the connection between the skin and the body. The adhesive prevents the skin from slipping.
5. Preparing the Stick
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Stick Material: The stick can be made from wood or synthetic material. Wooden sticks generally produce a better sound.
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Stick Length: The stick should be long enough to be comfortably held. It is usually around 30-40 cm long.
6. Final Checks
- Sound Check: After playing the drum, check its sound. If necessary, adjust the skin tension to improve the sound quality.
- Aesthetic Check: Review the appearance of the drum. If needed, sand or polish it to achieve a more aesthetic look.
Conclusion
The process of making a Turkish drum requires the combination of the right materials and techniques. Making your own drum can be both a fun and rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create your own Turkish drum and enjoy the beauty of this traditional instrument.
