Drum & Percussion Encyclopedia - 'L' Instruments

Description:

Description: A bass drum in the Sabar drum family.

Description: Two or more medium sized seashells which are struck together. The pitch is determined by the size of the shells.

Description: The Lap drum features a set of guiro grooves around the sound portal, as well as a larger playing surface for the drum head located under the sound portal which now has a plastic head instead of calfskin. Made of clay and measuring 12"w by 8-1/2"h, the Lap Drum is non-ethnic-specific instrument. It has a large calfskin head on the top of the instrument, and two smaller heads on the side. This design gives the performer the ability to play on two surfaces simultaneously with one hand. There is also a portal that can be used to vary the pitch or to create a glissando effect. Beneath the 5" head are slotted indentations in the clay surface that give a "guiro" or "ratchet" effect when scraped with the aluminum thumb rings. The rings can also be used to lightly hit the clay body of the drum to create a rhythmic tapping. The Lapdrum has a 1/2" hole between the 2" and 5" drumheads, designed to hold a tambourine jingle, finger cymbal, or miniature wood block. 

Description:

Description: Wooden spoons struck together.

Description: A large tall rectangular box, which is used as the resonator. Attached to the top of the box, are metal plates which are screwed down on one side. They are arranged chromatically, and are struck with soft mallets. The sound is similar to a metallic bass marimba. Primarily used in studio recordings.