Empuunyi: Bass Drum – Percussion instrument

The Empuunyi – otherwise known as the bass drum – is a large member of the Ugandan percussion family.

The Empuunyi – otherwise known as the bass drum – is a large member of the Ugandan percussion family, constructed from a large wooden chamber and a cowskin drum head. Others of varying sizes are called the Namunjoloba and Akaduumi.

Being of a larger size, the Empuunyi’s deep timbre and low pitch often determine the tempo of a musical performance, similar to the bass drum of a contemporary western drum kit, as other musicians follow it’s powerful pulse.