Mini Tongue Drum

A mini tongue drum measures approximately 7 to 16 cm in diameter. There is no single standard for what constitutes “mini”. In practice, you’ll encounter three main sizes:

• The pocket-sized 7.6 cm model measures about 7 to 7.6 cm in diameter and 3 cm in height. Its weight varies, with some models weighing between 50 and 150 g.
• The compact 10 cm model measures about 10 cm in diameter and 4 cm in height, with a weight generally ranging from 150 to 200 g. This size feels more substantial in the hand than the pocket-sized model while still being easy to store.
• The 14 to 15 cm format measures about 14 to 16 cm in diameter. A 14 cm model, for example, is 5 to 8 cm tall and weighs approximately 400 to 450 g. The sound becomes fuller, and the instrument remains convenient for travel.

A 15 cm drum fits easily in one hand. However, these specifications are not standardised: a 14 cm drum does not necessarily have 8 notes. Check the diameter, height, weight, and note layout of the instrument you’re interested in before making your choice. Some instruments marketed as “mini” are much larger and can measure up to 20.5 cm wide and weigh 1.54 kg.

If you plan to travel with your mini tongue drum, slip it into a snug-fitting soft case and store the mallets separately. A pocket-sized model usually fits in a personal bag or small backpack, while a 15 cm model travels better in hand luggage. Measure the instrument inside its case, rather than on its own, before choosing a bag. When flying, keep it in the cabin if possible. In a car, secure the instrument to limit vibrations, and never leave it in a hot vehicle.

After bringing the instrument in from the cold, wait for it to return to room temperature before closing it in its case so any condensation can evaporate.

A mini tongue drum typically has 6 to 8 notes. The 7.6 cm model usually has 6 notes, often tuned to a pentatonic scale with degrees 1-2-3-5-6-high 1 (C, D, E, G, A, and high C). Without the 4th or 7th, almost all note combinations sound in tune! An 8-note model, on the other hand, can offer a full diatonic octave, from C to high C.

This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule. Other small drums may be tuned to a different key or octave. In this collection, you can choose a C major pentatonic or D major diatonic tuning. On a small instrument with many tongues close together, striking one tongue makes its neighbours vibrate slightly. Some players enjoy this effect, while others prefer to avoid it.

Yes, you can play a mini tongue drum while it rests on your lap, a table, or a stand. Don’t grip the shell in your hand, as this dampens its resonance. On a table, let it rest on its rubber feet or a folded cloth to reduce the vibration transferred to the surface when you play at your desk. On some 7.6 cm models, you can play with the longest tongue facing you; it’s also the lowest-pitched tongue.

Very small tongues generally sound brighter when struck with soft mallets. You can also play them with your fingers if they respond well. Avoid striking too hard: simply touch the tongue and release it. With tongues this small, each strike takes concentration to hit the right spot, whereas instruments around 25 cm and larger leave more room for hand-playing techniques.

A mini tongue drum is a good choice when you want an instrument to explore, take on a trip, or give as a gift.

It suits both children and adults who want higher-pitched notes than those of a larger drum.

In this collection, you can choose a small tongue drum from a wide range of colours, including silver, gold, black, white, blue, red, green, purple, and turquoise.