Tambourin facts for kids
A tambourin (say "tam-boo-RAN") is a special type of music that was very popular in France during the 1700s. It sounds a lot like a lively folk dance from a region in France called Provence. The music is often written to sound like a specific French drum, also called a tambourin.
Many famous composers have written tambourins. For example, Jean-Philippe Rameau included several tambourins in his operas. Other composers like François-Joseph Gossec and Maurice Duruflé also wrote pieces called tambourins.
What is a Tambourin?
A tambourin can mean two things: a type of music and a type of drum. Both are connected to the lively folk traditions of Provence, France.
The Musical Tambourin
The musical tambourin is a fast and energetic piece. It usually has a strong, steady beat, like a drum. This makes it sound like a dance. Composers often used it to create a fun and exciting mood in their music.
- Origin: It comes from a folk dance in Provence, a sunny region in southeastern France.
- Time Period: It was most popular in the 18th century, which was the 1700s.
- Sound: It tries to copy the sound of the tambourin drum, with its rhythmic beats.
The Tambourin Drum
The tambourin is also a unique drum from Provence. It looks different from most drums you might see today.
- Shape: It has a long, cylindrical (tube-like) shape.
- How it's Played: It is usually played with just one drumstick.
- Where it's Used: You can hear this drum in some orchestral music. A famous example is in Georges Bizet's L'Arlésienne Suite no. 2, where it helps create a lively, French countryside feel.
