Congas are tall-and-narrow, single-skin drums that originate in Cuba. First built at the end of the 19th century, the conga features a deep shell that's open on the bottom but comes fitted with a batter head on top. Most congas are played as a pair, with the most common sizes being 11" and 12" diameter models. Over the past few decades, the instrument has become more and more popular in Western music.
The Many Names of the Conga
Congas are membranophones, which means they're a kind of percussion instrument with a drum skin that is struck to produce sound, just like bongos. Also, while the instrument is generally referred to as a conga, it actually has a different name depending on its size:
- Supertumba: The biggest kind of conga you'll find with a skin diameter of more than 12.5 inches.
- Tumba: This type of conga measures between 12 and 12.5 inches in diameter.
- Conga: The most common kind of conga, sized between 11.5 and 12 inches.
- Quinto: The quinto is another step-down in size and will always come fitted with an 11-inch skin.
- Requinto: All congas between 9.5 and 11 inches in size are technically called requintos.
- Ricardo: The smallest and shortest of all congas, which can be as small as 9 inches in diameter.
Congas: Drums Played With the Hands
Congas are mainly played with the hands. By striking the batter in different places, different sounds can be created. Strike the centre, and you'll get a deeper sound. Strike near the rim, and you'll get a brighter, more direct sound.
Frequently Asked Questions About Congas
Where does the conga come from?
The conga originates in late 19th century Cuba.
What does a conga sound like?
Thanks to their tall shells, congas produce a deep, warm sound.
What do I need to play a conga?
Besides one or more congas, you won't need much to get started. For beginners, it can worth picking up a conga lesson book.
What does a conga look like?
Congas are usually made of wood and feature a shell that's narrow at the open bottom and gradually widens towards the top, where the batter head is located. Congas can come finished in many different ways - in most cases, they'll sport a traditional wooden look.
How are congas made?
Wooden congas are carved out of hollowed-out tree trunks, but you'll also find fibreglass congas out there which are made of multiple layers of resin and glass fibres. Congas are fitted with a skin and the necessary hardware (screws, hoops) to keep the drumhead in place.
