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The Tambourine*

Tambourine-like instruments have been depicted historically in many cultures throughout the world. The modern tambourine has changed little since Medieval and Renaissance times. The tambourine is used to perform a variety of strokes and rolls; it may be played with either hand.

To Play the Tambourine:

A.

B.

C. 		    

Hold the tambourine in one hand with the thumb positioned on the head (if it has a mounted skin head) or on the rim (if it has no head).

Wrap your fingers securely around the shell.

Strike the head or the rim with the knuckles of your other hand with a snap of the wrist.

Note: Pull your knuckles off the head or rim immediately.
D.     

For a lighter sound, strike the head or rim with the fingertips.

Note: Pull your fingertips off the head or rim immediately.
E.     

To perform a roll, rotate the wrist rapidly back and forth.

Note: Most rolls are started with a tap of the
fingers on the head or rim of the tambourine.