 | |
| Percussion instrument | |
|---|---|
| Classification | Frame drum |
| Hornbostel–Sachs classification | 211.311 (Directly struck membranophone) |
Theadufe is a traditional squaretambourine ofMoorish origin, which is used inPortugal andGalicia, and other regions of Spain.[1][2]
A Portuguese percussion instrument, it was traditionally used in theBeira region ofCastelo Branco. It was also used in many other regions across theIberian Peninsula, and similar instruments are also found inNorthern Africa. Normally used for Christian religious processions it was also used as a musical company for the local festivals or even for the works in the fields. Traditionally, it was only played by women.[3] However it was also played by men in several occasions, though not in religious times.
The adufe is a square or rectangular frame drum usually made of pine, over which is mounted a goat's skin. The size of the frame usually ranges from 12 to 22 inches on each side, and 1 to 2 inches thick. The skin is stitched on the sides, with the stitches covered by a coloured ribbon. In the interior small seeds or small stones are placed to make pleasing sounds. An adufe is completely handmade.
