Thekim-kim orUdu is a plosiveaerophone (in this case implosive) and anidiophone of theIgbo ofNigeria. In the Igbo language,ùdù means 'vessel' or 'pot'.[1] This is ahand percussion instrument and it is one of the most important instruments inIgbo music.
Actually, being a water jug with an additional hole, it was played by Igbo women for ceremonial uses.[2] Legend says that the Udu drum was made accidentally because a punched hole was on the side, making it useless. Instead of throwing it away, the owner started to drum it.[3]
Usually, the Udu is made ofclay. Sometimes, the ashes of relatives are used to make them too,[1] but it also can be made out ofplastic orglass. Today it is widely used bypercussionists in different music styles.
The Udu is played in two primary ways: it is either placed on the lap or secured to a stand using duct tape.[3] The player produces a bass sound by quickly striking the larger hole.[4] Various pitches can be achieved by adjusting the hand position over the smaller upper hole. Additionally, the body of the instrument can be played using the fingers, creating a diverse range of sounds.
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