A Beginner’s Guide to Frame Drums: How to Play and Connect

There’s something ancient and instinctive about the beat of a frame drum—a simple yet powerful instrument used for thousands of years across cultures for ritual, rhythm, meditation, and celebration. Whether you're drawn to the heartbeat-like pulse or looking to explore rhythm as a spiritual or meditative practice, this guide is your introduction to how to play a frame drum and start your own drumming journey.

What Is a Frame Drum?

A frame drum is one of the oldest types of percussion instruments, typically consisting of a round wooden frame with a stretched skin or synthetic head. They're lightweight, easy to hold, and incredibly versatile.

Used in Middle Eastern, Native American, Celtic, and many other global traditions, frame drums are often played by hand and can be used in ceremonies, healing practices, sound journeys, or simply for the joy of rhythm.

👉 Browse our full collection of frame drums online here

How to Play a Frame Drum: The Basics

If you’re new to frame drumming, don’t worry—you don’t need any prior musical experience. Here's how to get started:

1. Holding the Drum

Most frame drums can be held in one hand and played with the other. Sit comfortably and hold the drum vertically or horizontally depending on your style and preference.

2. Basic Playing Techniques

Here are some frame drum techniques for beginners:

Bass Tone: Strike the centre of the drum with the flat part of your fingers or palm for a deep, warm tone.
Tone/Slap: Hit closer to the edge for a sharper, higher-pitched sound.
Finger Rolls: Glide or roll your fingers across the head to create a soft, sustained rhythm.
Muting: Rest part of your hand on the head to change the tone and dampen the vibration.

These simple movements can be combined into rhythm patterns or played intuitively, depending on the feel you're going for.

Watch our demo video for our Remo Bahia Buffalo Drum

Connecting with Your Drum

Frame drumming isn’t just about technique—it’s also about connection. Many people use the drum as a meditative or grounding tool. Playing repetitive rhythms can shift your brain into a calm, focused state—similar to meditation or breathwork.

Try using your frame drum to:

Begin or end a meditation session
Connect with your breath and heartbeat
Set a rhythm for chanting or mantras
Play in circle with others for a shared rhythmic experience

Choosing the Right Frame Drum

If you're looking to buy a frame drum online in Australia, you're in the right place. At Son of Drum, we offer a wide selection of beautifully crafted drums to suit every level, from beginners to experienced players.

Here are a few popular options:

Remo Bahia Buffalo Drum White: Perfect for players wanting a durable drum with a bright, sustained tone and higher pitch.
Remo Bahia Buffalo Drum Black Earth: Ideal for those seeking a deep, bass-rich sound with a grounded presence.
Remo 2.5 Frame Drum FS3: A versatile, lightweight frame drum that offers rich tones and excellent playability.
Bahia Buffalo Drum with Comfort Sound Technology ® Head: Designed for a softer, warmer sound—great for therapy, group work, or sensitive listeners.
Shamanic Frame Drum: A timeless ceremonial instrument rooted in ancient tradition.
Shamanic Medicine Drum - Animal Skin 18'': Authentic and powerful, this drum resonates deeply in ritual and fire ceremonies.
Shamanic Thunder Drum - Animal Skin 18'': A handcrafted drum with earthy, resonant tones that connect you to nature’s rhythm.
Xtreme Medicine Drum Padded Bag - Black: Protects your drum with durable, padded, weatherproof security for safe travel.

Learning how to play a frame drum is not just about rhythm—it’s about tuning into your body, your breath, and your intuition. As you explore, remember that there's no single "right" way to drum. Trust your instincts, start slow, and let the beat guide you.

👉 Shop frame drums online in Australia now and find the one that resonates with you.