Rudong (Pinyin:rú dōng) is a musical instrument used by the Yao people to strike the membrane. In Yao language, "ru" means drum, "dong" means small, and "rudong" means small drum. It is popular in Fangcheng Autonomous County of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
Legend has it that the ancient Yao ancestors were suddenly attacked by wind and waves while migrating by boat, and the situation was extremely critical. He prayed to King Pan to bless him with peace and made a wish for offering sacrifices. After the Yaomin escaped danger, they fulfilled their promise and repaid the wishes of the king every year. It has been passed down from generation to generation, and this traditional sacrificial activity is also called the king of jumping. At that time, the Yao people from the neighboring villages and villages, wearing festive costumes, gather together to play drums and dance to their heart's content. Rudong is an indispensable accompaniment instrument in dancing.
The drum frame is made of a whole section of camphor wood hollowed out. It is flat and round. Both ends are covered with cowhide or goat skin. The edges of the leather surface are first sewn on a circular iron ring slightly larger than the drum frame, and then covered with the drum openings at both ends. , Use a rope to tie the two iron rings tightly, and the tension of the film is adjustable. The size of the drum is variable, the common drum face is 21 cm to 27 cm in diameter, the drum height is 11 cm to 16 cm, and the drum frame thickness is 2 cm. A drum ring is placed on one side of the drum body. The drum and green bars are made of wood, the drum is 20 cm long, and the drum head is covered with cloth.
When playing, the player carries the drum ring with his left hand and hits the drum face with his right hand. The pronunciation is dull and different rhythms can be struck. It is often used in the priesthood and exorcism. It is often accompanied by musical instruments such as bee drums, gongs and cymbals in the traditional sacrificial activities of King Jumping Pan.