Artist, designer, teacher, and author, Frank Giorgini has developed a line of West African clay drums called Udu Drums. He first learned of these drums in 1974 on an educational trip to Zaria, Nigeria.Through years of development and experimentation, he has perfected his line of Udu Drums. They remain true to their origins while offering improved sound qualities and durability. They have since become extremely popular and are used by some of the world's leading percussionists.LP Udu® Drums possess distinct tonal qualities which range from subtle bass tones to soothing tabla-like tones. Their clay construction is based upon centuries-old African traditions. The name Udu has been derived from the Nigerian Ibo language, meaning pottery.Each LP Udu® Drum offers individual tonal values. They can be played by hitting any part of the drum with the palm of the hand or the finger tips. The textured surfaces provide additional tonal variations by creating rubbing sounds.The sound possibilities can be further expanded using the unique microphone ports found in each chamber. Small mics can be mounted for amplification and to capture the wondrous internal sounds.LP Udu® Drums are generally played in a seated position with the drum on the player's lap. They can also be played on a table top or floor using the included straw ring stands.* Very dry tones with short to medium sustain* Main body produces tight, quick pops while the extended bell offers tonal complements and a way to control sound