Chamberlain Music is a Department for Education approved supplier for the Musical Instruments, Equipment & Technology Framework

Percussion Workshop djembe 10 player pack

Brand: Percussion Workshop SKU:
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  • Pack contents: 2x5”, 2x6”, 3x7”, 3x8” djembes & book
  • An assortment of different sized African djembe drums
  • Each drum hand-painted with traditional West African designs
  • Handcrafted from a single piece of sustainably sourced mahogany
  • Natural goatskin head with pre-stretched nylon rope tuning
  • Tough and strong, ideal for the classroom
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  • Product information
  • Specifications

Percussion workshop djembes

Percussion Workshop djembes are made using Indonesian mahogany from SVLK compliant sources. This system ensures the wood is legally logged, transported, traded, and processed, and was initiated to answer the global need to be more responsible with the world's natural resources. Each drum is sustainably designed for long-term use in the classroom and built to last.

Traditionally djembes are played as part of an ensemble and group playing is the perfect way to practise rhythm whilst in a collaborative environment, such as for children at school or during music therapy. Playing the djembe is sensory experience which can develop motor skills and reduce stress, it is also allows children and adults to gain confidence and work as a team – all whilst having fun!

Packs for 15 and 20 players are also available in a Kente design.

Please note: as the drums are made by hand, head measurements are approximate (accurate to within 1"). Single drums are available to purchase here.




“The judges agreed that Andy Gleadhill's 'Slap Djembe' is an original and comprehensive resource for teachers: Perfect for visual learners, well planned and sequenced, with an innovative use of video. The judges were particularly impressed with how the resource engaged with rhythm and notation in a culturally sensitive and progressive way.”

Music and Drama Education awards judging panel

Comes with Andy Gleadhill’s Slap Djembe book

Whether you are a percussion expert or have never taught music before, Andy Gleadhill's Slap Djembe is the best introduction to playing and teaching the djembe, and it comes included with all our Slap Djembe packs! Utilising innovative, accessible notation this award-winning resource features 15 rhythms from around the globe with insightful performance notes and 10 weekly lessons that can be applied to any tune in the book. That's 150 lessons, planned for you!

What’s more, a raft of additional content is available for FREE on the Percussion Plus website, including video and guides, whiteboard-compatible resources and a full PDF of the book, all designed specifically for the classroom. Click HERE to find out more.

Unique design

The distinctive features of the djembe include a traditional goatskin head, sarong wrapped head ring, nylon rope tuning, and a superior third metal ring system to eliminate any chance of the skin slipping. Djembes are covered with elaborate designs, which are either carved or painted onto the surface of the drum stand. Combined, these features ensure the djembe has a unique sound and design.

Sounds of the djembe

Djembes are extremely versatile and widespread, due to the range of possible pitches which can be created by hitting different areas of the drum skin. The main sounds produced by the djembe are bass, tone and slap. Bass is a low-pitched note played in the centre of the drum. Tone, a medium-pitched sound, is made by striking the djembe skin right at the edge. Finally, slap is the most technically challenging sound of the djembe: a high-pitched note played near the edge of the djembe skin, it is similar to ‘tone’ but the hand is positioned slightly further towards the centre of the drum skin.

Cultural significance

Originating in West Africa, djembes have been a key part of spiritual traditions and rituals for generations. Djembe players are an integral part of African communities, and their role includes storytelling, communication with other tribes and entertainment. Passing on cultural, religious and historical information from generation to generation is also involved in their performances. Djembes are traditionally played at celebratory events such as festivals, marriages and birth ceremonies, and these rituals are accompanied by singing and dancing.