Gear article
Percussion Plus Slap Djembe (6-inch Pre-Tuned, World Map)
The Percussion Plus Slap Djembe is a compact hand percussion instrument featuring a synthetic shell and a pre-tuned 6-inch head. Designed primarily for educational environments, it incorporates a visual instructional system to help students master basic drumming techniques through marked striking zones.

Overview
The Percussion Plus Slap Djembe is a robust entry-level percussion instrument tailored for classroom use and group music sessions. Its most distinctive feature is the 'Slap' instructional drumhead, which uses clear visual cues to assist novices in tone production. The exterior is decorated with a vibrant World Map graphic, reinforcing its application in multicultural music education and global rhythmic studies.
Design and Build Quality
Constructed with a high-durability synthetic shell, the instrument is designed to withstand the physical demands of student handling and frequent transport. Unlike traditional wooden djembes, the synthetic body is less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. The 6-inch head is pre-tuned by the manufacturer, ensuring that the instrument maintains a consistent tension without the need for manual rope tuning or mechanical hardware adjustments.

The Instructional Drumhead
The 'Slap' system is the core educational feature of this djembe. The head includes specific markings that indicate exactly where to strike to achieve different sounds:
- Bass Tones: Achieved by striking the centre of the head.
- Slap Tones: Produced by striking the outer edge with a specific hand shape.
This visual guide facilitates a faster learning curve for students who may struggle with the abstract nature of hand placement on unmarked skins.
Sound Profile
Despite its compact 6-inch diameter, the Slap Djembe delivers a crisp and resonant sound. The pre-tuned synthetic head provides a sharp attack and high-frequency projection, which is particularly effective in ensemble settings where multiple instruments are played simultaneously. While it lacks the deep low-end resonance of larger professional djembes, its frequency response is well-suited for rhythmic exercises and elementary percussion workshops.
Suitability and Applications
This djembe is specifically targeted at educators, primary school students, and music therapy sessions. Its lightweight nature makes it portable for mobile teachers, while the fixed tuning ensures it is always ready for immediate use. It serves as an ideal introductory tool before students graduate to full-sized, tunable wooden drums. The World Map design further serves as a visual aid for cross-curricular teaching, linking music to geography and history.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary material of the Percussion Plus Slap Djembe shell?
- The shell is made from a robust synthetic material. This ensures the drum is durable enough for classroom use and resistant to environmental changes.
- Does this djembe require tuning?
- No, this model features a pre-tuned head. It is designed to provide a consistent sound immediately out of the box without the need for adjustments.
- How large is the playing surface of this drum?
- The drum head has a diameter of 6 inches. This compact size is specifically suited for children and students.
- What is unique about the 'Slap' drumhead design?
- The head features instructional markings that guide the player on where to strike. These markings help students distinguish between bass and slap tones.
- What graphic design is featured on the drum's body?
- The drum features a vibrant World Map design. This is intended to promote a multicultural approach to music education.
- Is this djembe suitable for professional performance?
- While it produces a resonant sound, it is primarily designed as an educational tool. Professional players typically prefer larger, tunable wooden instruments for a wider tonal range.
- How much does the Percussion Plus Slap Djembe typically cost?
- The typical price for this 6-inch model is approximately £27.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
- Can the head be replaced if it gets damaged?
- As a pre-tuned synthetic unit, the head is generally not designed for easy replacement like a traditional rope-tuned djembe. However, its synthetic construction is highly durable.
- What kind of sounds can this djembe produce?
- It can produce deep bass tones when struck in the centre and sharp, crisp slap tones when struck near the edge. The instructional head guides these techniques.
- Is the drum heavy to carry?
- No, the 6-inch size and synthetic shell make it very lightweight. It is designed to be easily handled by young students and transported by educators.
- Does the drum include any accessories?
- This specific model is typically sold as a standalone instrument. Accessories like bags or straps are generally purchased separately.
- How does the synthetic head compare to natural goat skin?
- The synthetic head is more resistant to weather and humidity, meaning it won't lose its pitch in damp conditions. While it may lack the warmth of goat skin, it offers better durability for schools.
