Sela Percussion Frame Drum 35 cm

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The frame drum, also known as a tambourine frame drum, is one of the oldest percussion families: it is found in many traditions (Middle East, Mediterranean, Celtic music) and in more introspective uses such as rhythmic work, breathing, or certain spiritual practices. With this Sela Frame Drum 35 cm, the brand offers a modern interpretation of the instrument: the aesthetics and feel remain traditional, while the tuning gains comfort and control thanks to a decidedly contemporary approach.

Who This Drum/Frame Drum Is For

This Sela frame drum is aimed both at beginners looking for an easy-to-handle instrument and intermediate musicians seeking an expressive and adjustable drum. Its 35 cm size offers an excellent balance between projection, playing comfort, and portability. It is particularly suitable for styles and contexts where the timbre needs to remain lively and nuanced: world percussion, acoustic accompaniment, sound healing, rhythmic meditation, or pulse and dynamic work in the studio.

Features and Innovations

The major strength of this model lies in its air pressure tuning mechanism. Rather than relying solely on the natural variations of the skin (temperature, humidity, tension), you can regulate the pressure to refine the pitch, firmness under the fingers, and rebound response. The result: you adapt the instrument to your session, the room, or the desired playing style (sharper attack, softer feel, longer sustain). The included air pump makes the operation simple and quick, even if you are new to the frame drum.

The grip holes also contribute to comfort: they secure the hold, facilitate playing standing or seated, and improve freedom of movement (thumb strikes, finger taps, open hand, rolls). The wooden frame provides a stable base, pleasant to the touch, while keeping the instrument light and manageable.

Sound

The goat skin is renowned for its very musical character: it brings a natural warmth, a beautiful richness of texture, and harmonics that respond finely to touch variations. On a frame drum, this translates into round lows, snappier slaps when emphasizing the attack, and a wide palette between deep notes and drier articulations.

The wooden frame contributes to projection and overall balance: it supports resonance without hardening the timbre, helping to maintain a sound that is both present and organic. By adjusting the air pressure, you directly influence the feel and response: higher tension emphasizes precision and definition, while a looser setting favors a enveloping roundness, ideal for meditative atmospheres and slow pulses.

Technical specifications

Instrument size	Medium	Skin type	Goat
Category	handheld	Color	Natural
Type	frame drums	Diameter	35 cm
Material	wood

Frame	wood	Air pump	included
Grip holes	yes	Size	35 cm diameter
Drumhead	goat skin	Equivalent	14 inches
Tuning mechanism	air pressure adjustment