The regulation drum was one of the most popular and used instruments in Spain from the 40s to the 80s, especially in military, brotherhood and school contexts. Its style is markedly military and is characterized by its representative colors of the flag of Spain, which made it popularly known in many sectors as the "Spanish drum".
This drum was manufactured in different sizes, from 38 cm in diameter to smaller 25 cm versions designed for children. The most common materials in its manufacture were wood, although brass versions were also made.
The tuning of the drum was done with metal rods and palometas, a classic system. The bass (the element that gives the characteristic vibrating sound) could be made of gut, silk or, in more modern versions, steel. The patches were traditionally made of leather, although over time synthetic patches were also used.
Everything about this instrument makes it a classic: its appearance, its sound and its presence in popular and traditional Spanish musical history.
