Membranophones Wrap-up

Review the main qualities of membranophones:

• Membranophones have a skin (either natural or synthetic) stretched across them.  Their sound is created by striking this skin with hands, a stick, or mallet. 
• Membranophones are commonly used during community events such as dances, weddings, funerals, and celebrations. 
• Membranophones come in a variety of sizes and shapes. 
• The bodies of membranophones are often made of metal or wood.  Natural objects can be hollowed out and turned into the body for a membranophone. 
• The pitch of a membranophone is affected by how tight or loose the drum “skin” is attached.  The tighter it is, the higher the pitch.  The looser it is, the lower the pitch.