Udu Drums

What is an Udu?

The udu is a unique hand percussion instrument that plays an important role in Igbo music and originates from southern Nigeria. In the Igbo language, "ůdů" means 'pot' or 'jug'. The udu is a plosive aerophone (in this case, implosive) and an idiophone, which means the sound is produced by the vibration of the instrument's own material.

The History of the Udu:

Originally, the udu was a water storage vessel with an additional hole punched in it. According to legend, the first udu drum was accidentally created when a hole was punched in the side of a faulty water container, and instead of being discarded, the owner began to drum on it. Initially, the udu was played by Igbo women during ceremonial occasions.

Crafting the Udu:

Traditionally, udus are made from clay. Today, udu drums are also made from plastic or glass and appear in various musical styles.

Inspired by traditional African designs and their own creations and developments, Schlagwerk Udu® drums have a wide range of models. Each Udu® drum is hand-turned, ensuring quality and uniqueness.

Playing Technique

The udu can be positioned in two ways during play: either on the player's lap or mounted on a stand. The basic deep sound is created by striking the large hole quickly. The pitch can be altered in various ways depending on the placement of the hand over the small top hole. Additionally, the entire body of the instrument can also be played with the fingers.

Where is the Udu Used?

The udu's unique sound has made it popular in various musical styles around the world. Its deep, resonant tones and the possibility of varying pitches make it an exciting and versatile instrument used in many genres of modern music.

The udu is a traditional Igbo instrument, which, due to its simple yet effective design and unique sound, is found in numerous musical styles. The clay instrument is simple yet versatile, allowing the player to produce various sounds and rhythms, enriching the musical experience. The Schlagwerk Udu® drums, inspired by African traditions and their own creations, come in a wide range of models and are handcrafted, further enhancing the sense of uniqueness and quality.