The hourglass-shaped drum played with two hands is known as the Changgo. It is a distinctive percussion instrument integral to a wide array of Korea's traditional music.
Understanding the Changgo
The Changgo (sometimes spelled janggu or janggo) is a highly recognizable Korean drum, easily identified by its unique, slender waist that connects two wider drumheads. This design is not only visually striking but also crucial to its sound production, allowing for a diverse range of tones and rhythms.
Key Features and Construction
The Changgo's construction is specifically designed to facilitate its unique playing style and contribute to the rich soundscapes of Korean music.
- Shape: It possesses a characteristic hourglass or "waisted" shape, which is why it's also referred to as a "waisted drum." This central constriction differentiates it from other drums.
- Size: A typical Changgo measures approximately 66 cm (26 inches) in length. Its two heads are stretched tightly over hoops at each end of the drum's body.
- Materials: Traditionally, the body is carved from wood, and the drumheads are made from animal hide, such as cowhide or deerskin, which are then tensioned to produce sound.
How It's Played
The Changgo is notable for its dual-technique playing style, requiring the use of both hands, each employing a different method to strike the drumheads.
- Hand Play: One of the drumheads is typically struck with an open hand, producing a softer, more resonant bass tone.
- Stick Play: The other drumhead is struck with a thin bamboo stick (often called a gullae), which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound.
This combination allows the Changgo player to create intricate rhythmic patterns, dynamic variations, and a nuanced interplay between the two distinct sounds, making it a highly versatile instrument.
Role in Korean Traditional Music
The Changgo is a cornerstone in many forms of traditional Korean music, providing the rhythmic foundation and often leading the musical ensemble. Its versatility allows it to adapt to various genres and contexts, from lively folk performances to solemn court music.
- Nongak (Farmers' Music): In nongak, the Changgo is essential for its energetic rhythms that accompany community festivals and rituals.
- Samulnori: It is one of the four instruments in samulnori, a contemporary genre of Korean percussion music that combines traditional rhythms into powerful and dynamic performances.
- Court and Folk Music: Beyond these, the Changgo also plays a vital role in classical court music (such as aak and jeongak) and various forms of folk music, including pansori (storytelling opera) and sanjo (solo instrumental music).
The ability of the Changgo to produce both deep and sharp tones makes it indispensable for creating complex rhythms and providing the rhythmic drive for many ensembles.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Changgo (장고 or 장구) |
| Shape | Hourglass, waisted |
| Length | Approximately 66 cm (26 inches) |
| Drumheads | Two, stretched over hoops, producing distinct tones |
| Playing | One head struck with a hand, the other with a stick |
| Origin | Korea |
| Usage | Found in various Korean traditional music genres (folk, court, Samulnori) |
For further details on the Changgo and its significance in Korean culture, you can explore resources on traditional Korean instruments from reputable sources like Britannica.
