There are two types of people when it comes to steel tongue drums: those who have never heard of them and are intrigued by the name, and those who recognize them but know little about their origins or purpose. To bridge this gap, we set out to gather and organize information on the subject, presenting it in a series of articles.
My name is Mikhail Bychkov. As both a musician and journalist, I have spent years exploring the world of tongue drums and handpans — playing them, incorporating them into sound recordings, masterclasses, and performing in concerts and meditative practices.
To truly understand this instrument, we must start with the fundamentals: the steel tongue drum is, above all, a musical instrument. Although its earliest known mentions date back to 2005 or 2007, it is still often regarded as an exotic curiosity rather than a widely recognized instrument. History suggests that it can take decades for an instrument to earn a permanent place in the musical landscape, and the tongue drum is still on that journey. Yet, every encounter with this instrument evokes a sense of wonder. The first reaction is often amazement, quickly followed by three common questions: How does it work? Why is it called a tongue drum? Where is it used?
How does it work?
A steel tongue drum is composed of two metal hemispheres fused together, giving it a distinctive, otherworldly appearance, often drawing comparisons to a UFO. The upper hemisphere features precisely cut tongues, each tuned to a specific note. Sound is produced by hitting these tongues with either your fingers or soft-tipped mallets, classifying the instrument as part of the percussion family.
This interplay creates a rich, sustained, and undulating sound, reminiscent of a bell’s chime.
Why is the tongue drum also called a glucophone?
Known globally as a tongue drum, hapi drum, or tank drum, the instrument has different names depending on the country. However, Russian-speaking enthusiasts found its straightforward name somewhat uninspiring. This led to the adoption of the term “glucophone”, though the exact meaning of “gluc” remains open to interpretation. There are three prevailing explanations:
1. The word “gluc” may stem from the Russian term for "hallucination," suggesting a dreamlike or hypnotic quality to its sound;
2. In computing, “gluc” refers to a bug — an unexpected anomaly, which, in a way, aligns with the first explanation;
3. The most uplifting interpretation comes from the German word “Glück”, meaning happiness, well-being, and luck. When combined with "phone", it evokes the idea of "the sound of happiness."
Personally, I like the last explanation most of all.
Where is a steel tongue drum used?
In the following articles, we will explore the deeply immersive and relaxing qualities of the tongue drum’s sound, along with the myths that have formed around it. These characteristics have firmly placed the instrument within the realms of yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices. In a way, it has become a victim of its own effect, shaped by the stereotype that it belongs solely in these spaces. The widespread use of singing bowls and similar instruments has likely contributed to this association, making the steel tongue drum more accessible and understandable to a receptive audience.
This accessibility has led to its adoption in therapeutic settings, where it provides physical and emotional support for children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Psychologists and psychotherapists have also begun integrating it into their practices, recognizing its calming and grounding effects.
For musicians, the tongue drum serves both as a solo and an accompanying instrument, offering a unique tonal palette. However, despite its growing popularity, there is still a notable lack of scientific research on its benefits and applications.
This is likely due to the instrument’s relative youth — its potential remains largely uncharted, and further exploration will depend on the curiosity and innovation of its players and creators.
The tongue drum holds immense possibilities, many of which are still to be discovered. Perhaps this musical UFO will find its true place in a field we have yet to even imagine.