Play Tambourine: Techniques, Tips, And Guide

Playing the tambourine is an exciting and versatile skill that can add rhythm and flair to any musical performance. Whether you're jamming with friends, performing in a band, or simply exploring your musical talents, mastering the tambourine opens up a world of possibilities. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the techniques, tips, and tricks to help you become a tambourine pro. So, grab your tambourine, and let's get started!

Understanding the Tambourine

Before we dive into the techniques, let's get familiar with the instrument itself. The tambourine is a percussion instrument consisting of a frame, often made of wood or plastic, with pairs of small metal jingles called zills. These zills produce a bright, shimmering sound when the tambourine is struck or shaken. Tambourines come in various sizes and shapes, each offering a slightly different tonal quality. Some tambourines also feature a head, a drum-like membrane stretched across the frame, which adds another dimension to the instrument's sound.

Types of Tambourines

There are two main types of tambourines: headed and headless. Headed tambourines have a skin or synthetic membrane stretched across the frame, similar to a drumhead. This head allows for a more resonant and sustained sound, making them ideal for orchestral and classical music. Headless tambourines, on the other hand, have an open frame with no head. They produce a brighter, crisper sound and are commonly used in pop, rock, and folk music.

Choosing the Right Tambourine

Selecting the right tambourine depends on your personal preferences and the style of music you intend to play. Consider the size, weight, and material of the frame, as well as the type and number of zills. A larger tambourine will generally produce a louder and fuller sound, while a smaller tambourine may be more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods. The material of the frame can also affect the sound, with wooden frames typically producing a warmer tone and plastic frames offering a brighter sound. The zills are crucial to the tambourine's sound, so pay attention to their material and thickness. Thicker zills will produce a louder, more cutting sound, while thinner zills will offer a more delicate and shimmering tone.

Basic Tambourine Techniques

Now that you have a good understanding of the instrument, let's explore some basic tambourine techniques. These techniques form the foundation of tambourine playing and will allow you to create a variety of rhythms and sounds.

The Shake

The shake is the most fundamental tambourine technique. To perform a shake, hold the tambourine in one hand, gripping the frame firmly but not too tightly. Gently move your wrist back and forth, allowing the zills to jingle against each other. The speed and intensity of the shake will determine the volume and texture of the sound. Experiment with different shaking motions to create a variety of rhythmic patterns. You can create a soft, shimmering sound by shaking gently or a loud, energetic sound by shaking vigorously. This technique is extremely versatile, allowing you to create a consistent rhythmic backdrop or add dynamic accents to the music.

The Thumb Roll

The thumb roll is a more advanced technique that produces a sustained, shimmering sound. To execute a thumb roll, moisten your thumb and gently run it along the edge of the head (if your tambourine has one). The friction between your thumb and the head will cause the zills to vibrate, creating a continuous ringing sound. This technique requires practice and coordination, but it's a valuable skill to master. The thumb roll is often used to create a dramatic effect or to sustain a note or chord. It's a great way to add texture and depth to your tambourine playing.

The Hit

The hit is a simple yet effective technique that involves striking the tambourine with your hand, fist, or another part of your body. You can hit the tambourine on your leg, your hand, or even your knee to create different sounds and rhythms. Experiment with different striking points and intensities to explore the range of sounds the tambourine can produce. Hitting the tambourine can create a strong, percussive accent or a softer, more subtle sound, depending on how hard you strike it. This technique is great for adding emphasis to certain parts of the music or for creating rhythmic patterns.

The Knee/Hand Roll

The knee/hand roll is another technique for creating a sustained sound. Hold the tambourine with the head facing down and gently tap the edge of the head against your knee or the palm of your other hand. This creates a continuous roll of the zills, similar to the thumb roll but with a different tonal quality. The knee/hand roll is a fantastic way to fill space in the music and create a flowing, rhythmic texture. It’s often used in quieter passages or to transition between sections of a song.

Advanced Tambourine Techniques

Once you've mastered the basic techniques, you can start exploring more advanced tambourine techniques. These techniques will add depth and complexity to your playing, allowing you to create more intricate rhythms and sounds.

The Finger Roll

The finger roll is similar to the thumb roll, but it uses your fingers instead of your thumb. This technique can be more challenging to master, but it offers greater control and finesse. To perform a finger roll, moisten your fingertips and gently run them along the edge of the head. The finger roll allows you to create a very delicate and nuanced shimmering sound. It's often used in classical music or quieter, more intimate musical settings.

The Flam

The flam is a rhythmic technique that involves playing two notes in quick succession, creating a distinct percussive accent. To execute a flam on the tambourine, strike the head with one hand while simultaneously shaking the tambourine with the other hand. The flam is an excellent way to add rhythmic complexity and interest to your playing. It can be used to emphasize certain beats or to create syncopated rhythms.

The Double Stroke Roll

The double stroke roll is a drumming technique adapted for the tambourine. It involves playing two strokes with each hand in quick succession. On the tambourine, this can be achieved by quickly alternating between hitting the head and shaking the zills. The double stroke roll is a challenging technique, but it can create a very powerful and driving rhythmic effect. It’s often used in high-energy musical genres like rock or Latin music.

The Combination Techniques

The true magic of tambourine playing lies in combining different techniques to create unique and interesting rhythms. Experiment with blending shakes, hits, rolls, and flams to craft your own signature style. For example, you might start with a gentle shake, transition into a thumb roll, and then end with a sharp hit to create a dynamic and engaging rhythm. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to experiment and explore different combinations.

Tips for Better Tambourine Playing

To become a truly skilled tambourine player, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Practice Regularly

Like any musical instrument, consistent practice is key to improving your tambourine skills. Set aside dedicated practice time each day or week to work on your techniques and rhythms. Even just 15-20 minutes of focused practice can make a significant difference over time. The more you practice, the more natural and fluid your playing will become.

Listen to Music

Immerse yourself in music that features the tambourine. Pay attention to how professional tambourine players use different techniques to create various sounds and rhythms. Try to emulate their playing style and incorporate their techniques into your own repertoire. Listening to music is a fantastic way to expand your musical vocabulary and gain inspiration for your own playing.

Experiment with Different Grips

The way you hold the tambourine can significantly impact your playing. Experiment with different grips to find what feels most comfortable and allows you the greatest control. Some players prefer to hold the tambourine by the frame, while others prefer to grip it by the edge of the head. Find the grip that gives you the best balance between stability and freedom of movement.

Maintain Your Tambourine

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your tambourine in top condition. Regularly clean the head (if your tambourine has one) with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. If the zills become dirty or tarnished, you can clean them with a metal polish. Store your tambourine in a case or padded bag to protect it from damage when not in use. Proper care will ensure that your tambourine sounds its best for years to come.

Play with Other Musicians

The best way to hone your tambourine skills is to play with other musicians. Playing in a band or ensemble will challenge you to adapt your playing to different musical styles and tempos. It will also give you valuable experience in working with other musicians and contributing to a cohesive sound. Playing with others is also a lot of fun and can be a great way to make new friends.

Conclusion

Playing the tambourine is a rewarding and enjoyable musical skill that can add a unique dimension to your performances. By mastering the basic and advanced techniques, practicing regularly, and exploring different musical styles, you can become a skilled and versatile tambourine player. So, grab your tambourine, embrace the rhythm, and let the music move you!