Madal (drum) is a traditional Nepalese percussion instrument. It is typically made from a hollowed out piece of wood, such as oak or sal (Shorea robusta), and covered with goat or buffalo skin. The specific type of wood used can vary based on regional traditions and the maker’s preference.
The Madal drum is an important traditional instrument in Nepalese music, with a long and rich history dating back several centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Kathmandu Valley and is still widely used today in religious and cultural celebrations, as well as in traditional music ensembles.
The Madal drum was originally used in religious and courtly music, where it was played to accompany vocal and instrumental performances. Over time, the Madal has become an integral part of Nepalese folk music, playing a central role in many traditional musical styles, including devotional and shamanic music.
In recent decades, the Madal drum has gained popularity beyond Nepal and is now used in a variety of musical genres, including world music and fusion music. The instrument is valued for its versatility and rich, resonant sound, and continues to play an important role in Nepalese musical culture.
A Madal drum typically has the following parts:
- Drum shell: The main body of the drum, which is usually made from a hollowed out piece of wood.
- Drumhead: The stretched skin that covers the top of the drum shell and produces the sound when struck.
- Lacing or screws: The cords or screws that hold the drumhead in place and allow for tuning.
- Rim: The metal or wooden ring that surrounds the drumhead and supports the lacing or screws.
These are the main components of a typical Madal drum, but the exact design and materials used may vary depending on regional traditions and the maker’s preference.
The Madal drum is tuned by adjusting the tension of the drumhead, which is typically made of goat or buffalo skin. This is done by loosening or tightening the laces or screws that hold the drumhead in place. The desired pitch can be achieved by striking the drumhead and adjusting the tension until the desired sound is produced. The tuning of the Madal drum can be changed to suit the specific musical style or tradition it is being used for.
The Madal drum produces a range of sounds, including bass and treble tones, depending on where and how it is struck. The tone can be deep and resonant when struck in the center of the drumhead, or higher and sharper when struck near the rim.
The specific sounds produced by a Madal drum can vary depending on factors such as the size and shape of the drum, the type of skin used for the drumhead, and the playing technique of the percussionist. However, the Madal is generally known for producing rich, full-bodied sounds that are well-suited to traditional Nepalese music and other types of world music.
In traditional Nepalese music, the Madal drum is often used to provide a rhythmic foundation for vocal and instrumental performances, and its various sounds and tones can be used to create intricate and complex musical patterns.
You can buy Madal drums from several sources, including:
Musical instrument shops: Look for specialty shops that sell traditional instruments, such as the Madal drum.
Online retailers like Foomantra.com. Foomantra is trusted ecommerce platform where you can buy high quality Madals from convenience of their home in USA.
Directly from makers: You can also purchase Madal drums directly from the makers or artisans who create them.
When purchasing a Madal drum, be sure to consider factors such as the size, materials, and quality of the instrument, as well as the seller’s reputation and return policy.
