Mandar
Musical Instrument
History
Loud instruments and all-night music served as an effective form of self-defense. What better way to deter wild animals than through playing, dancing, and singing, all while preserving their lives. Otherwise, people would have harmed their own kin. Eventually, softer-sounding instruments began to be created, leading to the development of the Mandar. These instruments became integral to singing and dancing during festivals that celebrated seasonal changes.
Raw Materials and Tools
The Mandar is made using a wooden shell, animal parchment, leather straps, and hoops. The tuning paste is made from iron filings and gum, while rice paste is applied for tonal balance. Tools include knives for cutting leather, a wooden mold for shaping the drum, and hammers for securing the components.
Process
The Mandar drum is crafted by stretching parchment over both ends of a hollow wooden shell. Leather straps are threaded through leather hoops at each end to secure the drumheads. The right side is coated with a black tuning paste, while the left side is treated with rice paste. The drum is wrapped with leather straps and suspended horizontally by a leather string, allowing it to be played with both hands.
Design and Color
The Mandar is commonly used in group singing for rhythmic accompaniment and is often adorned with colorful fabric.
Product Range
Mandar