Tambour

Tambour is a relatively generic French term which embraces a wide range of drums varying in materials and construction techniques. Primarily, these portable instruments have been used throughout western Europe in regimental, theatrical or community marching bands to mark time and to signal. They also became emblematic of urban political resistance and rebellion against the French monarchy during the 18th century.

In England during the Elizabethan era, a side drum was known as the "tabor", and was often used in combination with a wooden or metal pipe in a 'one man band'. The pipe could be played with one hand (it had only 3 finger holes) allowing you to strike a drum suspended from your shoulder, waist, or arms.

Woodcut of Thomas Slye, Taberer, 1599
with permission from
Ishmael J. Stevanov-Wagner

Selected References:

• Bagwell, Dick. Pipe & Tabor Tutor: A Self-Teaching Method. Berkeley: Piper HQ, 1992.
• Kelischek, George. Tabor-Pipe Primer. Brasstown, NC: Susato Press, 1993.
• Partition de plusieurs, marches et batteries de tambour...l'an 1705. Paris: Minkoff France.
• Tabor and Pipe homepage of the Taborers' Society -- http://www.taborers.co.uk/
• Le Tambour et la harpe: ouevres, pratiques et manifestations musicales sous la Revolution, 1788-1800. Paris: Editions du May, 1991.
• Wortley, Russell. How to Play the English Pipe and Tabor. London: Cecil Sharp House, 1977.