Equivalent circuit modeling and vibrometry analysis of the Udu Utar Nigerian drum

The udu drum is both an aerophone and an idiophone played with both of the musician's hands. It originates from Nigeria where it began as a functional water pot made out of fired clay. At some point, a side hole was cut into the pot and it became a musical instrument, traditionally played by women, which had an important role in religious ceremonies. The udu is capable of producing deep tones that result from acoustic resonances similar to those of Helmholtz resonators, though with a second hole. It also may produce higher pitch sounds that result from the musician tapping the surface of the udu. This paper will discuss one-dimensional equivalent circuit modeling of the acoustic resonances of the udu. A comparison of the resonance frequencies in the equivalent circuit modeling to measured resonance frequencies will be given. Additionally, an analysis of the structural modes of the udu as measured by a scanning laser vibrometer will be given, along with some insights into the sound produced by striking the drum at different locations. This information may be used by udu designers to better tune these instruments.