drum

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drum Percussion instrument, generally a hollow cylinder or vessel with a skin stretched across the openings. It is struck with hands or a variety of sticks. Drums were among the earliest musical instruments; examples have been found dating from 6000 bc. Drums first appeared in European Classical music in the 18th century. In the 20th century, the role of drums in popular music greatly expanded. Electronic drum machines shape much contemporary dance music. See also timpani

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