Haitian Vodou Drumming - The Rada Batterie

The Rada Batterie

This ensemble consists of a family of three drums - The Manman, Segon and Boula - and one bell called Ogan. Often any steel implement, such as the blade of a hoe, will serve as a bell. These drums are all slender and somewhat conical. They look similar to Arara and Yoruba drums seen in Nigeria, Benin and Togo

The Manman – (from the French for Mother) This is the tallest and deepest drum in the ensemble, and plays the role of the leader. Ranges in height from 30 to 48 inches. The master Maman player takes cues from the participants in the ceremony, from the officiating priests, and from the lwas themselves. It is played with a stick in the strong hand and bare handed with the weak hand. The stick, called a Bagèt (from the French baguette), strikes both the head of the drum and the side, producing a strong clicking sound. The bagèt can be straight, curved, hooked, or even hammer shaped.

The Segon – (from the French Seconde, meaning second) This is the middle drum in the ensemble, and its rhythms create a base to which the Maman can create its counterpoint. It is typically between 24 and 30 inches tall. Traditionally this drum is also played with one stick and one bare hand, although the stick style differs somewhat from the Maman. In more contemporary settings, especially in New York, the Segon is played with two bare hands. In modern settings conga drums are used as a substitute for traditional Haitian instruments, particularly with the Segon.

The Boula – This drum is the smallest of the three (7-8 inches in diameter and 18 – 24 inches tall) and is responsible for playing an ostinato pattern which really propels the rhythm forward. This drum is played with two sticks, and the base rests flat on the floor. The tone created is high, but somewhat muted. While this drum's parts seem simple, it requires true skill and stamina to play them accurately, especially at fast tempos.

Other instruments which are occasionally included are the Ason and the Bas. The Ason is a gourd rattle covered in a web of beads used particularly by the priests during the Rada ceremonies. The Bas (from the French Basse) is a large shallow frame drum which performs the task of providing a simple foundation for the other drummers.