Gear article

Schlagwerk Pandariq Frame Drum

The Schlagwerk Pandariq Frame Drum is a specialized percussion instrument that blends the properties of traditional frame drums with adjustable jingles. Built with a 7-ply beech wood frame and a natural goat skin head, it is designed to offer a wide tonal palette for versatile musical applications.

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Overview and Construction

The Schlagwerk Pandariq Frame Drum is an innovative percussion instrument that occupies a unique space between a traditional frame drum and a tambourine-style instrument. It features a robust 10cm high frame constructed from 7-ply beech wood, providing structural integrity and a resonant foundation. The playing surface is made from high-quality goat skin, which is essential for achieving an authentic timbre and traditional hand-drum feel.

A defining characteristic of the Pandariq is its internal holding cross, which serves a dual purpose: it acts as a handle for the player and houses the instrument's jingle system. The drum includes four sets of jingles that are both tuneable and modular, allowing the player to customize the percussive 'shimmer' to suit the specific requirements of a performance.

Tone and Customisation

The Pandariq is designed for significant tonal personalisation. It features twelve integrated tuning screws around the rim, which are adjusted using a standard tuning key. This allows the user to precisely control the tension of the goat skin head, moving from deep, resonant bass tones to higher, crisp attacks.

The jingles offer further sonic flexibility. Because they can be easily attached or removed from the holding cross, the instrument can function as a pure frame drum or a complex hybrid percussion piece. This versatility ensures that the Pandariq can produce a range of sounds, from subtle rhythmic accents to driving, bright textures.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to standard percussion instruments, the Pandariq offers more mechanical complexity than a simple Remo 10 Lollipop Frame Drum, which is designed for entry-level use. While it shares some rhythmic utility with snare drums like the British Drum Co. Maverick or the Tama Starclassic Performer, the Pandariq relies on hand techniques and organic skin resonance rather than the mechanical snare wires found on maple or stainless steel drums.

In contrast to melodic percussion like the Sela Melody Tongue Drum, the Pandariq is primarily a rhythmic and textural tool. Its ability to provide both skin-based tones and metallic jingle accents makes it more adaptable than a standard tambourine or a traditional fixed-skin frame drum.

Target User and Application

The Pandariq is suited for professional percussionists and enthusiasts who require a portable but sonically diverse instrument. Its design allows it to be used in various musical genres, including world music, folk, and contemporary acoustic settings. The inclusion of the tuning system and removable jingles makes it particularly useful for studio recording, where specific pitches and decay times are often required.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the frame of the Pandariq made from?
The frame is crafted from 7-ply beech wood, which provides a durable and resonant base for the drum.
What type of drum head does the Pandariq use?
The instrument is mounted with a high-quality goat skin playing surface, offering an authentic timbre and traditional feel.
How many tuning screws are included on the Schlagwerk Pandariq?
The drum features twelve tuning screws positioned around the frame to allow for precise tensioning of the head.
Can the jingles be removed from the instrument?
Yes, the four sets of jingles are designed to be easily attached or removed from the holding cross based on your sonic preference.
Are the jingles on the Pandariq tuneable?
Yes, the jingles are tuneable, allowing the player to refine the metallic response and pitch of the jingle sets.
How high is the frame of the Pandariq?
The frame has a height of 10cm, which contributes to its tonal depth and allows for comfortable handling.
Is a tuning key included with the purchase?
Yes, the Pandariq includes a tuning key to facilitate the personalisation of the drum's sound through the twelve tuning screws.
Where are the jingles located on the drum?
The jingles are placed on the holding cross inside the frame, which also serves as a grip for the player.
What is the typical price range for this model?
The Schlagwerk Pandariq Frame Drum typically retails for approximately GBP 419.
Does the Pandariq function as a melodic instrument?
While it can be tuned to specific pitches, it is primarily a rhythmic percussion instrument, unlike melodic tools such as the Sela Melody Tongue Drum.
How does the goat skin head compare to synthetic heads?
The natural goat skin provides a more traditional, warm timbre and organic response compared to the synthetic materials often found on entry-level frame drums.
What makes the Pandariq different from a standard tambourine?
Unlike a standard tambourine, the Pandariq features a deep 10cm beech frame, a tuneable natural skin head, and internal, tuneable jingle sets on a cross-bar.