Dhol (drum) is an Armenian percussion musical instrument, a drum with a cylinder-shaped body that is covered with either one or two membranes.
Previously used in military campaigns, dhol is currently used in ensemble with zurna, accompanied by dancing, processions. Foundation of dhol refers to the pagan period of the history of Armenia. But the tool is still used in the Armenian Church.
Dhol is a metal, decorated cylinder with small bells, a bilateral drum. The bass side of dhol is about 10 mm in diameter. As the cylinder, the membrane can be made from different materials. Despite the heavy weight of walnut, it is most often used because this material is better for sound. Membrane, or membranes can be either on both sides, or with one. If the membrane is located on both sides, then they are connected by a string. Sound of dhol also depends on the elasticity of the string.
The Armenian people have a huge number of musical instruments. A variety of tambourines, cymbals, drums were used on all of historic Armenia. The earliest mention of the Armenian musical instruments dates back to 3000–2000 B.C.
According to ancient manuscripts, several kinds of timpani were used during worship of the Armenian goddess Anahit Ancient cymbals, dated about 800 B.C., were found at
Karmir Blur (Red Hill) excavations, 30 km north of Yerevan.
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