Membranophones are instruments in which the sound is made by the vibration of a stretched membrane, or skin. There are two basic types — drums and, much less important, mirlitons [such as kazoos]. Evidence from art proves the existence of drums at least 4000 years ago in Mesopotamia and Egypt, but the perishable nature of the materials from which drums are made has meant that few ancient examples survive. Today, drums are enormously popular throughout the world, and are made in a great variety of styles. Many peoples consider drums to have magical and ritual significance, using them to ward off evil and to appeal to good spirits. Drums are also important signaling and battle instruments, as well as being popular for accompanying singing and dancing. Since the 1700s drums have been
