Explore Percussion with music dictionary guides to drums, cymbals, mallets, rhythm, technique, tuning, and ensemble roles.
The bass drum is the largest and lowest-pitched drum in a drum set or marching ensemble, producing deep resonant beats that anchor rhythm. It appears in orchestral, marching, popular, and electronic music, serving both musical and dramatic functions.
The marimba is a pitched percussion instrument consisting of wooden bars struck with mallets, producing resonant, mellow tones. It is used in classical, jazz, and world music traditions worldwide.
The conga is a tall, single‑headed drum of Afro‑Cuban origin, played with the hands and central to many Latin music styles. It appears in ensembles ranging from traditional rumba to contemporary pop, providing characteristic rhythmic patterns.
The djembe is a rope‑tuned, goblet‑shaped hand drum originating from West Africa. It is widely used in traditional ceremonies, contemporary world‑music ensembles, and educational settings.
The hi‑hat is a pair of cymbals mounted on a stand and operated with a foot pedal, forming a core component of the modern drum kit and providing distinctive rhythmic accents.