Museumofworldmusic.com

Nigeria / Africa

Instruments

Name: Udu.

Type: Clay Vessel > Percussion.

Maker: A local maker in Vancouver (I don't have the name).

Acquisition Date:

Acquisition Source: Randy Raine Reusch.

Description: The Udu is percussion instrument that is classified as a "vessel drum". It is played amongst the Ibo, Igbo and the Hausa peoples. Amongst the Igbo and the Hausa people the udu is much wider shape and volume. Originally the use of the udu was to be used as a water jug. In the languages of these peoples the word "udu" means "peace" or "vessel". Traditionally the udu was only made by the women in the Igbo and Hausa cultures. It was also used originally as a water jug. The word udu means vessel "peace" or "vessel". Today the Udu is now used and adapted into many different musical styles, from jazz, to rock, to classical and even Persian classical music. The udu was adapted by notable groups like the Kamkars and other Persian musicians. The left and right hands when striking the udu push a certain amount of air through the vessel. This leads to a deep resonant sound that is reminiscent to the Indian tablah.



Citations: asza.com > udu > The udu shown in my teacher Randy's site is what they actually use in Nigeria among the Igbo and Hausa peoples. Drum Dojo forum Udu & Ghatam discussion.