
Bongo drums
Bongo drums are a pair of small, open-bottomed drums typically played together, connected by a shared shell. Originating from Afro-Cuban music, they are usually made of wood with animal skin or synthetic drumheads. They are played with the hands, producing a variety of sounds based on where and how they are struck—such as deep bass tones or bright, sharp notes. Bongo drums are versatile percussion instruments, often used in Latin, jazz, and world music, and can be played solo or as part of a larger ensemble to provide rhythmic and melodic textures.