Modern MEINL frame drums represent some of the oldest drums used in music stemming from the farthest reaches of the globe. Ancient frame drums were traditionally used for dance, celebration and various ceremonies by providing rhythmic foundations as well as overall presence, as meditative harmonic sound effects are easily achievable. The Tar frame drum from North Africa and the Middle East has a shallow 2.5" depth and a thumb notch that allows for easy finger placement to execute pitch bending techniques and intricate rhythms played between both hands. These drums are typically struck with the fingers close to the edge where the drum naturally resonates to its fullest. This model of the MEINL Tar comes equipped with a hand selected goat skin head for uniform thickness and warm resonant tones. The lightweight and rugged Rubber Wood shells have outstanding acoustic properties with recessed lugs for minimal interference. Included is an allen wrench for tuning adjustments.