Engalabi: Long Drum – Percussion

The Engalabi features as part of the Ugandan percussion family and has various names depending on the size and shape, it is also known as a membranophone.

The Engalabi is a membranophone instrument and part of the Ugandan percussion family.

Traditionally the drum has a head made of reptile skin attached to a large wooden body. The Engalabi plays important roles in traditional ceremonies and in theatre; namely “Okwabya Olumbe”. The one rule for musicians is they must use their bare hands to play, rather than beaters or sticks.