2 replies to this topic

[Chen06]

Hi, I was recently thinking about the similarities between Chinese and Japanese drums and wondered if I should make a list of some Chinese drums and their Japanese equivalents. The Da Gu's Japanese equivalent is obviously the very well known Taiko drum but can you guys name any more? Also, does anyone known the origins of the Japanese Tsuzumi drum. It is commonly used in Noh theatre and is the only Japanese drum played with the hands. Considering that Noh has origins in Chinese Nuo theatre I was wondering if the Japanese Tsuzumi drum originated from a Chinese drum or had a Chinese equivalent. It is an hour glass shaped drum and I believe I have seen a few hourglass shaped Chinese drums. Anyway, heres a wiki link to the Tsuzumi as well as a youtube video link at the bottom so you can hear what it sounds like. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsuzumi

If anyone knows of a Chinese equivalent to the Tsuzumi drum or anything that sounds like it please tell me. I wouldn't be surprise d if the Tsuzumi drum originated from China since many Japanese instruments do.

[Yun]

The Japanese kakko 羯鼓 drum was introduced from China during the Tang period (Heian period in Japan), and originated in Central Asia. It is also still played in Korea as the galgo, whereas it has long died out in China itself.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kakko

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galgo

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jiegu

A Japanese kakko:

[Chen06]

yeah, I already knew about the Kakko drum. That was the other hourglass shaped drum I knew about. I believe it sounds rather different from the Tsuzumi though. Other than both of them being of hourglass shaped and being taut drums they are a good bit different. Thanks for the info though. Still wondering if there was or is a Chinese equivalent or precursor to the Tsuzumi drum any help would be greatly appreciated