Columbia
Columbians

Wood, hide
Mid 20th century
Diameter: 9.75 in;  Height: 7 in
Membranophones – Struck Directly

This tambora (from the Spanish word tambor, meaning “drum”) is a two headed bass drum, popular with African-Columbian communities in Columbia’s coastal regions.  It has a cylindrical body made from wood that is covered on both ends with goat or sheep hide. The diameter is wider than the depth/height and there is a loop of tan woven rope attached for hanging over the shoulder.  

The tambora is played with drumsticks called baquetas.  It is an essential instrument in cumbia music, that is played in the Barranquilla Carnival and the National Cumbia Festival in El Banco, Magdalena.  Chanting while playing the tambora is also evidenced as part of the Pacific coast marimba tradition. Musicians can be found  chanting and playing the tambora at social gatherings, saint worship, and wakes. The tradition of playing the tambora is passed on orally.