The Royal Drummers of Burundi, commonly known in recordings as The Drummers of Burundi, are a percussion ensemble originally from Burundi. Their performances are a part of ceremonies such as births, funerals, and coronations of mwami (Kings). Drums (called karyenda) are sacred in Burundi, and represent mwami, fertility and regeneration. The Royal Drummers use drums made from hollowed tree trunks covered with animal skins. In addition to the central drum, called Inkiranya, there are Amashako drums which provide a continuous beat, and Ibishikiso drums, which follow the rhythm established by the Inkiranya.

The performance of the Royal Drummers has been the same for centuries, and their techniques and traditions are passed down from one generation to the next. The members of the ensemble take turns playing the Inkiranya, dancing, resting, and playing the other drums, rotating throughout the show without interruptions. At the start of their performance, the drummers enter balancing the heavy drums on their heads and singing and playing. There are some extra members who carry ornamental spears and shields and lead the procession with their dance. They then perform a series of rhythms, some accompanied by song, and exit the stage the same way, carrying the drums on their heads and playing.

In the beginning of the 1960s, the Drummers started to tour the world. They have recorded several albums, Batimbo (Musique Et Chants), The Drummers of Burundi, Real World and The Master Drummers of Burundi. They have also appeared on Joni Mitchell's The Hissing of Summer Lawns (1975), on Zimbo, the B-side of the Echo & the Bunnymen single of The Cutter (1983), and the Def Leppard single Rocket. They have influenced artists such as Adam and the Ants and Bow Wow Wow, and inspired Thomas Brooman to organize the WOMAD festival in 1982, which shaped the burgeoning world music genre. The drumming of the ensemble is also featured in Werner Herzog's film Fitzcarraldo.

Master Drummers of Burundi

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