CultureJuly 17, 2026
djembe
JEM-bay
Definition
A goblet-shaped hand drum originating from West Africa, typically played with bare hands and known for its wide range of tones and resonant sound.
Etymology
The word comes from the Bamana language of Mali, where 'djé' translates to 'gather' and 'bé' translates to 'peace,' together signifying the drum's purpose to 'gather everyone together in peace.'
In the news
The word refers to a specific type of African drum that serves as both the centerpiece of the performance's title and a primary instrument used by the dance theater group.
Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater to headline Atlanta Dance & Drum Festival
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