Big Drum

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Big Drum is a genre and a musical instrument from the Windward Islands. It is a kind of Caribbean music, associated mostly closely with the music of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Carriacou in Grenada and in the music of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

[edit] Carriacou

[edit] Saint Kitts and Nevis

Big Drum is played in Saint Kitts and Nevis, alongside a kettle drum, during Carnival celebrations.

[edit] Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Vincentian big drums are traditionally made from tree trunks, but are more often made from rum kegs now. The socially aware or satirical lyrics are usually performed by a female singer called a chantwell, and is accompanied by dancers in colorful skirts and headresses. Big Drum is commonly performed at weddings and other celebrations, especially the launches of boats.