Description
Originating from West Africa, particularly among the Yoruba people, the ashiko has a rich history. Its name actually means "drum" in Yoruba. Traditionally, it was used in various ceremonies, celebrations, and rituals.
The X8 Drums Ashiko Freedom Drum is made from a hand carved mahogany wood shell with a goatskin head stretched over the top. Its unique shape, resembling an elongated cone, sets it apart from the djembe.
Features:
- Size: 14 in. Head x 26 in. Tall
- Legally Harvested, Environmentally Sustainable Mahogany wood, One-piece, solid shell construction
- Low Stretch Alpine Nylon HTB 5 mm rope runners
- Lathe turned for uniform thickness
- Lateral groove/rough surfaced carvings on interior bowl to reduce overtones
- Premium selected goatskin drumheads
- Temperature controlled storage environment
- Shells are kiln dried with up to 20 coats of teak oil to protect and preserve the wood.
- Comes with access to Free Digital Lessons: How to Tune Your Drum, How to Play the Basic Notes, How to Play Fanga Rhythm, Play-along Tracks
Please note that each drum is hand-carved, by master carvers, and sizes will tend to slightly fluctuate. No two drums are exactly alike which makes each one a unique work of art.
About the Ashiko:
This drum is played with the hands, producing a deep, resonant sound. The traditional rope tuning system allows you control over the pitch of the instrument.
Historically, ashiko drums were used in communal settings, serving as a means of communication and expression within the community. They played a role in storytelling, dance, and religious ceremonies.
Playing the ashiko involves a combination of hand techniques, including slaps, open tones, and bass tones. The drummer can produce a variety of sounds by striking different parts of the drumhead with varying degrees of force.
Today, the ashiko has found its way into various musical genres and is appreciated globally for its distinctive sound and cultural significance. Whether you're exploring traditional African music or incorporating it into more contemporary styles, the ashiko drum adds a rhythmic depth that resonates through time and culture.
Not sure about the size? Read Which Size Djembe is Right for Me?
Need help tuning? Watch our video, How to Tune a Djembe.
