How To Tune The Djembe

This is a valid question, as often when we speak of "tuning" an instrument we're referring to absolute notes (A, G#, Bb, etc.) or tuning systems (C pentatonic, heptatonic, etc.). With this type of tuning either the instrument is either in tune or out of tune, with no room for error (think of a guitar or piano). However, with most percussion instruments and drums the question of whether or not it is "in tune" is more relative and subjective. In the case of solo instruments (one drum played by one person) the drum should be tuned to itself, such that the optimal sound is produced given its size and material composition. In cases of sets of drums, like congas or dunun, the drums should be tuned to themselves and to each other; individually the drums need to sound good, but as a set they should be pitched relative to the other drums, so that certain intervals in pitch allow the drums to complement one another and create a simple melody when played. One's personal preference for how a drum "should" sound is also a major factor when considering the tuning of a djembe or other drum.

A djembe that is in tune is much easier and more efficient to play. Having the proper tension (assuming the quality of the shell and skin are adequate) will allow the drummer to create a variety of distinct sounds by slightly altering the hand and finger position and pressure. The more in-tune, the greater these distinctions will be, and the easier it will be to create them. Playing with speed is also facilitated by having proper tension on the head. A djembe that is out of tune makes sound distinction difficult, and leaves the drummer working extra hard to develop proper technique by trying to make up for deficient tuning or drum quality.

The tuning of a djembe or other rope-tension drum is achieved by increasing or decreasing the tension applied to the head by tightening or loosing the ropes or skin. There are a variety of methods one can employ to adjust tension, including heating up the head, hammering the rings down, and most commonly, changing tension in the ropes. To do this there are two broad steps: First is to tighten the vertical ropes (those connecting the top and bottom loops), taking out as much slack as possible; Second is to twist those vertical ropes using a series of woven knots with horizontally-running tuning rope. This weave process creates horizontal rows and a diamond-shape pattern. Proper tuning will generally mean applying the same tension around the circumfrence of a drum, so that there are not tight or loose spots. Read on for details on how to do this!