(BLACK PR WIRE) -- A drum is often viewed as an African music instrument. The distinct sound of the drum is usually associated with people dancing, wearing colorful dashikis and big headpieces. The drum might have originated from Africa; however it has become a significant piece of international instrumentation. Native tribes, musicians and everyday people use the drum all over the world. November is International Drum (Percussion) Month, a time to appreciate the history of percussion music and the simplicity and perfection of the drum itself.

The original drum, mankind’s oldest musical percussion, is made of wood and covered with animal skin, from a cow or sheep. It is played with bare hands, sticks or pieces of bones. It was formerly used as a form of communication over great distances. In fact, the drum has been used to communicate between the state and the community throughout Sri Lanka. Moreover, the Japanese used a form of drum called the Taiko drum to motivate troops and call out orders or announcements. The drum plays a big part in Haitian’s culture. The African descendants used the drum at their independence celebration after acquiring their independence from France. They also used the drum during the Savannah, Georgia battle against the British in which they helped the United States in 1779.

The drum has since been very popular and has been transformed and dubbed many other names. A collection of drums was created in the 1930s when it was found that one drummer could play two drums simultaneously. Nowadays, with its distinct sound, one can hear the beat of the drum in rituals, religious ceremonies, school bands, carnivals and a lot of other activities.