Bata Drums

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Bata Drums are closely linked with the Santeria religion predominately practiced in Cuba. Originally created by the Yoruba people of West Africa, the Bata drums were integrated into Cuban culture as a result of the slave trade during the 1800s. These drums are typically found in sets of three, including the Okonkolo, the small, higher-pitched drum, the Iya, or lead drum, and Itotele, the harmonious counterpart to the Iya. The two-headed, goblet-shaped drums are played by placing the drum across the lap and striking the heads with the hands.