Do You Know About Djembe? African Music Quiz
A djembe or jembe is a rope-tuned skin-covered goblet drum played with bare hands, originally from West Africa. According to the Bambara people in Mali, the name of the djembe comes from the saying "Anke djé, anke bé" which translates to "everyone gather together in peace" and defines the drum's purpose.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What empire was responsible for the creation of the Djembe?
- A.
Egyptian Empire
- B.
Ethiopian Empire
- C.
Empire of Mali
- D.
Zagwe Empire
Correct Answer
C. Empire of MaliExplanation
The Empire of Mali was responsible for the creation of the Djembe. The Djembe is a traditional West African drum that originated in the Mali Empire, which was a powerful and influential empire in the 13th to 16th centuries. The Djembe was an important instrument in the cultural and musical traditions of the Malian people, and it played a significant role in their ceremonies, celebrations, and daily life. The Empire of Mali was known for its rich cultural heritage and contributions to art, music, and literature, making it a likely candidate for the creation of the Djembe.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is a Djembe traditionally made of?
- A.
Wood
- B.
Plastic
- C.
Glass
- D.
Metal
Correct Answer
A. WoodExplanation
A Djembe is traditionally made of wood. Wood is the most commonly used material for constructing a Djembe drum due to its durability, resonance, and natural aesthetic. The specific type of wood used can vary, but commonly used woods include African hardwoods such as mahogany or lenke. The use of wood allows for the production of rich, warm tones and ensures the longevity of the instrument. Plastic, glass, and metal are not traditionally used materials for making Djembes.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What animal skin is used to make the head of the drum? (choice all that apply)
- A.
Cow
- B.
Lion
- C.
Goat
- D.
Lamba
Correct Answer
A. CowExplanation
Cow skin is commonly used to make the head of a drum.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What ceremonies are the Djembe used to celebrate? (choice all the apply)
- A.
New birth
- B.
Marriage
- C.
New car
- D.
I just saved money on my car insurance by switching to gieco
- E.
Divorce
Correct Answer
A. New birthExplanation
The Djembe is used to celebrate new birth ceremonies.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Name one of the three spirits that is contained in the Djembe
- A.
Spirit of instrument maker
- B.
Holy spirit
- C.
Spirit of the cook
- D.
Spirit of christmas past
Correct Answer
A. Spirit of instrument makerExplanation
The Djembe is a traditional West African drum, and it is believed to contain the spirit of the instrument maker. In many African cultures, it is believed that musical instruments have their own spirits or souls, and the spirit of the instrument maker is said to reside within the Djembe. This spirit is believed to bring life and energy to the drum, and it is honored and respected by those who play and appreciate the instrument.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What shape is made when tuning your drum?
- A.
Square
- B.
Triangle
- C.
Diamond
- D.
Trapezoid
Correct Answer
C. DiamondExplanation
When tuning a drum, the tension rods are tightened or loosened, causing the drumhead to stretch or relax. This process creates a diamond shape on the drumhead. Therefore, the correct answer is diamond.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Name one of the sounds made on the Djembe
- A.
Pow
- B.
Bam
- C.
Bass
- D.
Splash
Correct Answer
C. BassExplanation
The Djembe is a West African drum that produces a variety of sounds. One of the sounds made on the Djembe is "bass." This sound is created by striking the center of the drum with the hand or a mallet, resulting in a deep and resonant tone. The bass sound adds depth and richness to the rhythm and is often used as a foundational beat in traditional African music.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What drum do must of the students in this class play?
- A.
Djun-djun
- B.
Balafone
- C.
Djembe
- D.
Snare drum
Correct Answer
C. DjembeExplanation
The correct answer is Djembe. The question asks what drum most of the students in the class play, and out of the options given, Djembe is the only drum mentioned. Therefore, it can be inferred that Djembe is the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Zebra skins are some times used to make drums
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Zebra skins are sometimes used to make drums. This suggests that it is possible for zebra skins to be utilized in the production of drums.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A djun-djun drum group consists of a __________, ________, ________
Correct Answer
A djun -djun drum group consists of a dundoumba, sangban, kenkeni
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