The talking drum is a two-headed drum, which has strings which can be squeezed to create warping and talking sounds. The talking drum originates from Nigeria and is traditionally held under a players left arm. The drum is then played with a stick in the player's right hand and the fingers of a player's left hand (and reversed if the player is a lefty.) The talking drum can also be played by positioning the drum between the player's legs and using finger and hand techniques with both hands.

The special quality of a talking drum is its ability to change pitch. This ability allows it "talk" in ways distinct from virtually all other drums and instruments. In order to make it "talk" a player simply squeezes or releases the strings before, after or while striking the head. (Squeezing the strings makes the pitch higher; releasing makes the pitch lower.)

LP talking drums are one of our favorite drums! We own, play and love LP talking drums because LP has perfected the design and sound of these instruments. Like all LP drums, these are true art drums. LP's talking drums are among the most fun and most expressive hand drums. They are beautifully crafted and expertly made. The rope is strong and perfect for squeezing and controlling the pitch of the drum. The expressive and rhythmic possibilities are virtually endless!

Small, Medium, Large & LP Talking Drums

Medium LP Talking Drum LP751

Photos: Medium size LP Talking Drum

Stock: In stock

Delivery: Arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

List Price: ~~$309.00~~

Sale Price: $209 (includes tax & shipping in continental U.S.)

Includes: Talking drum stick & playing strap

Description: The medium talking drum has great range of tones, from a drum with 6" heads. There is a warm bass and high tones too. The LP rope system allows for the most responsive talking effects. The drum is very sensitive and it is easy to make talking sounds. LP's great design makes this drum easy to play.

Heads: Each head is 6" in diameter

Drum Height: 13"

Hand crafted drum

Head: Hand Selected Goatskin

Stock: In stock

Delivery: Arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

List Price: ~~$309.00~~

Sale Price: $209 (includes tax & shipping in continental U.S.)

Large LP Talking Drum LP752

Photos: Large & Medium Talking Drums

Stock: In stock

Delivery: Arrives 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

List Price: ~~$369.00~~

Sale Price: $244 (includes tax & shipping in continental U.S.)

Includes: Talking drum stick & playing strap

Description: The large talking drum has great range of tones, including beautiful warm bass; and sharp high tones too. The LP rope system allows for the most responsive talking effects. The drum is very sensitive and it is easy to make talking sounds. LP's great design makes this drum easy to play.

Heads: Each head is 7.5" in diameter

Drum Height: 16"

Hand crafted drum

Head: Hand Selected Goatskin

Stock: In stock

Delivery: Arrives in 3 - 5 days in continental U.S.

List Price: ~~$369.00~~

Sale Price: $244 (includes tax & shipping in continental U.S.)

Small LP Talking Drum LP750

Photo: Small, medium & large talking drums

talking drum

Delivery: Special Order. The small LP Talking Drum is no longer a regularly made drum by LP. However, LP will make it for you upon order. It takes about 2 - 3 months for them to make it and for it to be delivery to you.

List Price: ~~$279.00~~

Sale Price: $189 (includes tax & shipping in continental U.S.)

Includes: Talking drum stick & playing strap

Description: The small talking drum produces highest tones of the three LP talking drums. As with the other drums, the LP rope system allows for the most responsive talking effects. The drum is very sensitive and it is easy to make talking sounds. LP's great design makes this drum easy to play.

Heads: Each head is 5" in diameter

Drum Height: 11"

Hand crafted drum

Head: Hand Selected Goatskin

Stock: Currently not in stock

List Price: ~~$279.00~~

Sale Price: $189 (includes tax & shipping in continental U.S.)

Talking Drum Players & Playing Techniques

Talking drum soloist - Brief jam that shows the basic talking drum stick & finger technique & arm position!

Talking drum master, Bisi Adelekethe, demonstrates a range of talking drum techniques as he jams!

Talking Drum Master, Rasaki Aladokun demonstrates rhythms and tunes that are played on the talking drum during different African events!

Bisi Adelekethe speaks about demonstrates specific rhythmic and talking techniques of the talking drum!

Descargatlán-Solo de Talking drum - Afro-Cuban ensemble jam with talking drum solo!

LP® Talking Drums

If you want a professional quality, & beautifully crafted, Talking Drum, the LP Talking Drum is for you!

Heads: Goat skin - LP Talking Drums are equipped with hand- selected goat skin heads.

Three Sizes:

Small: 5" heads; 11" height

Medium: 6" heads; 13" height

Large: 7.5" heads; 16 height

You can create great warping effects with this drum; you can explore the essence of talking with a drum when playing one of these!

You will be able to change pitch & bend the sound on any given note and rhythm. (This can be accomplished by holding the drum under the arm - or between the legs - and squeezing and releasing the cords as the head is struck.)

You won't be bothered by an squeaky conversation, either! LP's talking drum is made with a special " no squeak" head design.

You can achieve smooth, effortless movements when squeezing and releasing cords. on LP's Talking Drums.

The tension cord is made of a special material, which resists stretching, yet provides a comfortable feel.

You get a durable & long lasting talking drum with LP's talking drum.

Wood: Kiln dried, environmentally friendly Siam Oak (the same solid and highly resonate wood used for LP conga drums).

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