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Frame Drums

Frame Drums at Drum Center of Portsmouth
Bodhrans, tars, dafs, rivas, and contemporary frame drums for Celtic, Middle Eastern, world fusion, and meditative use.

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Frame Drums are among the earliest drums in recorded history. By definition, a frame drum is simply a drum thats drumhead width is greater than its depth. Frame drums are true world-percussion instruments, and traverse musical genres and cultural borders. Easy to play, these warm-toned instruments can be held with one hand and played with a soft mallet or straddled between the knees like a bongo drum. Frame drums are super-portable, and are excellent for many applications - including DCP community drum circle nights!

Frequently Asked Questions

Frame Drums FAQs

What is a frame drum?

Frame drums are shallow, single-headed drums with a wide head and a narrow frame — among the oldest drum types in human history. Varieties include the Celtic bodhran, Middle Eastern tar and daf, Native American hand drums, and Brazilian pandeiros.

What styles of music use frame drums?

Frame drums appear in Celtic, Middle Eastern, world fusion, meditative, ambient, and acoustic. Many drummers also add them to standard drum-set setups for color, texture, and rhythmic variation.

What sizes do frame drums come in?

Frame drums are produced in a range of sizes to suit different tonal ranges, playing styles, and physical setups. Smaller models offer higher pitch and faster response; larger models deliver deeper, more resonant tone.

What materials are frame drums made from?

Construction varies by maker but commonly includes wood shells, synthetic shells, and natural or synthetic drum heads. Premium models use specific woods or finishes chosen for their tonal character.

Are frame drums good for beginners?

Yes — frame drums are approachable instruments that produce satisfying sound right away. Many makers offer entry-level options that play well without lessons, with intermediate and pro models for serious players.

Which frame drums brands does DCP carry?

Drum Center of Portsmouth stocks frame drums from the leading percussion makers including Remo, Meinl, Cooperman, and specialty makers. Whether you want a single instrument or a complete percussion setup, we have options across price ranges and playing levels.

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