Zabumba is a percussion musical instrument, which resembles a drum medium or large in size.
The zabumba is popularly known as “kick drum” or “bombo”, it has a cylindrical shape made of wood, with leather or synthetic leather linings. Its sound is characteristically low.
It is genuinely believed that the zabumba is a musical instrument of black origin. However, in Brazil, the state of Pernambuco is consecrated as the land of great zabumba masters.
Usually, zabumbeiros - zabumba players - assume the vertical position (standing), setting the rhythm of the instrument using sticks and macetas (species of sticks, also popularly known as “cod”), which can reverberate in the upper and lower part of the instrument.
In Brazil, zabumba is quite typical in forró bands and other northeastern rhythms, such as baião, the xaxado and oxote, in addition to being very common in the “bumba meu boi” parties, in the northern region of the parents.
The traditional groups called "pé-de-serra" are composed of basic instruments, such as the zabumba, the triangle and accordion, being highly appreciated in the typical festivities of the northeastern June court Brazilian.
Zabumba plant
The plant of the zabumba (Brugmansia suaveolens), also known as trumpet, straw or white skirt, depending on the Brazilian region, is normally used for ornamental purposes, due to its showy flowers.
However, it can also serve as a philanthropic medicine for intestinal disorders, in addition to having hallucinogenic properties when consumed in the form of tea.
The use of zabumba tea as a drug has become a serious problem in Brazil, and the plant's circulation is controlled by the Ministry of Health. Toxins released by the plant can cause coma or death.