Sabar

The sabar is a traditional drum from Senegal that is also played in the Gambia. It is associated with Wolof^[1] and Serer people.^[2]

For a tribe in India, see Sabar people. For the river in Romania, see Sabar (river). For a concept in Islam, see Sabr.

Goron sabar

Mbeng mbeng sabar

Tungoné sabar

Kun sabar

Two Sabar drums from Senegal

The drum is generally played with one hand and one stick or "galan".^[1] There are many different kinds of sabar, each with a different sound and a different role in the ensemble. Some common forms of sabar are Nder, Thiol, Goron, Mbeng Mbeng, Tungone, and Xiin.

The sabars are made from the wood of the dimb tree from the Senegambia region. They are carved by the laobé, or carvers, and generally skinned by the griot. The skinning process involves using goat skin and securing it with 7 pegs, cord, and "mes" or webbing.

Among its most renowned exponents was the Senegalese musician Doudou N'Diaye Rose.

Sabar is also recognized as a type of dance and the style of music played while using this drum. It is commonly performed at weddings and festivals, and other events. Men will play the drum (Saba) and the women will dance. ^[3]

Mbeng Mbeng sabar skinned in the traditional method using pegs and "mes" or webbing

See also

• Jung-jung
• Mbalax
• Njuup
• Talking drum