The drum sombres8.wav, 478 Ko

the name the tambouyé the ti-bwa the drummer’s part in the fight drum language

back to "the sound"

1. the name:

The Creole name of the drum used for Danmyé is "Cocoyé". It is built out of old barrels or wooden casks which were used to store rum. Its diameter, smaller than that of standard drums, along with its manufacture from the skin of a she-kid, result in a clearer sound.

  

2. the tambouyé

The tambouyé, sitting astride on the cask, modulates the sound, pressing on the skin with his heel.



3. the ti-bwa

The ti-bwa player accentuates the rhythm on a duple time basis and plays on the bottom of the drum. He plays a basic part in the sound because he is the one who provides the two-beat tempo on which the tambouyé singer and wrestlers are going to rely.



4. the drummer’s part in the fight

The drummer is not only a referee but he may also be the main supporter because he can influence the course of the fight by giving advantage to his favourite wrestler. As a matter of fact, the tambouyé can indicate to the wrestlers the right time to attack or withdraw from the engagement. He can also disturb a wrestler in action by playing a jerky rhythm which provides improper information.



5. drum language

Signal to dance in a ring
Signal for assault
Signal to withdraw from the engagement
Signal to attack

back to "the sound"