Contemporanea C-TIB02 TIMBAL 14" X 90CM WOOD

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

Born in the vibrant atmosphere of Salvador de Bahia, the timbau (or timbau de rua) has established itself as a central voice in modern Brazilian percussion. It is found in the world of blocos afro and street ensembles where it interacts with other batucada instruments to carry a dense, festive collective pulse. Its popularity is closely linked to the culture of samba-reggae and the aesthetics of "timbalada," where the percussion must both mark the tempo, respond, and call with maximum clarity.

This wooden model, with a 14-inch diameter and 90 cm height, belongs to the lineage of timbaus designed for projection and presence: an instrument made to be heard within a group, outdoors or on stage. Its generous size enhances the bass foundation while maintaining clear attacks on the edges, a major asset when the percussion section needs to stay precise and impactful.

Who This Conical Drum Is For

This timbau is aimed at beginner to intermediate percussionists who want to explore the codes of Afro-Brazilian percussion and develop a right-hand/left-hand technique based on nuance and articulation (bass, tone, slap). Its approach remains intuitive: the shape of the shell and the skin's response naturally encourage alternating between center and edge, helping to build solid rhythmic phrases.

It is also suitable for advanced musicians seeking a section instrument for rehearsals, rodas, workshops, events, and stage performances. In styles such as samba-reggae, Afro-Brazilian, carnival, modern batucada, and fusions (funk, pop, world music), this timbau delivers a carried, energetic, and very present playing style in the mix, particularly useful when "cutting" the rhythm amid a full ensemble.

Features and Innovations

The timbau is a membranophone with a conical shell designed to offer a wide dynamic range in bare-hand playing. The conical geometry favors simple and effective reading: a deep bass center when striking more gently in the middle, and sharper, more nervous sounds when playing near the edge. This sound distribution facilitates the typical playing codes of Bahian ensembles: calls, responses, offbeats, intensity variations, and repetitive phrases that must remain stable over time.

Its lightweight design is a tangible advantage whenever playing is done standing or on the move. Compared to a heavier djembe, the instrument is better suited for playing in motion and long sessions. It is generally used with a strap to stabilize position and free the gesture (strap not specified depending on configuration), an important point to maintain comfortable placement and consistent striking while walking.

Sound Characteristics

With a wooden shell and conical shape, this timbau offers a direct, lively response and effective projection, particularly appreciated outdoors and in group playing. Generally, wood provides a natural warmth and some roundness in the low spectrum while retaining clarity in the attack. The result: strikes remain clear even when the overall volume of the batucada rises.

The desired sound behavior is clear: a deep bass in the center to anchor the groove, and sharp trebles on the edges to articulate, accentuate, and relaunch. This duality encourages expressive interpretation by playing on dynamics and strike speed rather than brute force. The 14-inch size, combined with the 90 cm height, enhances the sense of presence: the instrument "speaks" quickly, with a clear impact, ideal for carrying the driving patterns of samba-reggae and Afro-Brazilian rhythms.

Technical specifications

Instrument size	Large	Depth	90 cm
Category	Brazilian	Color	Brown
Type	timbao	Hardware	Chromed
Material	wood	Diameter	14 "
Skin type	Synthetic

Family	percussion, membranophone	Height	90 cm
Playing style	bare hands	Shell	wood
Origin and repertoire	samba-reggae, Salvador de Bahia, "timbalada"	Design	lightweight, suitable for parade use with strap (not specified)