An ocean drum is a shallow, round percussion instrument filled with tiny metal beads that create the sound of ocean waves when tilted. Loved for its calming, wave-like sound, it's used in music, meditation, sound therapy, and sensory play.
Musicians use it to add natural ambience, while therapists, yoga instructors, and educators rely on it for relaxation, emotional release, or sensory stimulation. Whether in sound baths, classrooms, or holistic treatments, the ocean drum provides a soothing experience.
History of the Ocean Drum
The ocean drum originated in 1970s France, inspired by composer Olivier Messiaen’s fascination with natural sounds, especially the sea. Though he didn’t build it himself, his vision led to its creation by instrument makers like Bernard Baschet. Originally crafted for orchestral use, these drums were large, handmade, and used to replicate environmental sounds.
Ocean drums are mass-produced in various sizes and materials, used not just by musicians but also in sound healing, yoga, and special education. Their wave-like sound has made them a staple in therapeutic and wellness settings around the world.
Types of Ocean Drums
Ocean drums vary not only in how they sound, but also in how they’re built and intended to be used. Some are designed specifically for sound therapy, with clear heads so practitioners can see the beads moving, enhancing the visual experience.
Others are made for musicians, featuring higher-quality materials and improved sensitivity for greater expressive control. There are also travel-sized models designed for portability, often lighter and more compact without sacrificing too much tone. Certain designs even include features like removable heads, dual playing surfaces, or tunable frames for customisation. Let’s explore the most common varieties available and what sets them apart.
Besar Animal Hide Ocean Drum
★★★★★ - “Very fast delivery and beautiful ocean drum - Verified Buyer
Animal hide offers a unique and authentic sound, adding depth and richness to the ocean drum's tone. It also provides a traditional feel, which can enhance the overall aesthetic and experience of playing the drum. Animal hide drums are often handcrafted with care and attention to detail, resulting in a high-quality and durable instrument.
Purchase the Animal Hide Ocean Drum here.
Tropical Fish Ocean Drum
We decided to include our ocean drum made of PVC, despite it being our least preferred option, for inclusion and to accommodate our vegan community. Recognizing their preference for non-animal-derived materials, we sought to offer an alternative option that aligns with their values.
Check out this Ocean Drum here.
Sedang Ocean Drum
★★★★★ - “Beautiful item. well made and very colourful”. - Verified Buyer
The Sedang Ocean Drums, available in various sizes and unique designs, are crafted from high-quality PVC materials with no animal hide, making them vegan-friendly and ethically stylish. Each drum produces a loud sound, resembling ocean waves, thanks to colorful beads inside.
Purchase the Sedang Ocean Drum here.
Tips for Choosing the Right Ocean Drum
When choosing an ocean drum, consider how you’ll use it and the sound you prefer. Plastic heads are durable and great for sound therapy, while animal hide offers a warmer tone for music. Larger drums are louder with deeper sound; smaller ones are softer and more portable.
Deeper drums give more sustain and reverberation, mimicking ocean waves more realistically. Bead size also shapes the sound—small beads create a light, high-pitched wash, while larger beadsproduce a deeper, bass-like rumble. Pick what fits your needs, whether it’s for relaxation, music, or sensory use.
The Pros and Cons of Buying a Second-Hand Ocean Drum
Buying a second-hand ocean drum can offer a unique experience, often handmade instruments have special character or spiritual history, but it also carries risks like hidden damage that may affect sound and durability. While some wear adds sentimental value, defects can compromise playability. New drums are more likely to be in a greater condition and should produce a consistent tone, with thorough quality checks—like ours—to ensure you get the best experience without surprises.
Unique Ocean Drum Accessories
To get the most from your ocean drum, key accessories include a padded carry case to protect it during travel, and a drum stand for hands-free playing—ideal for therapists and performers. Adding mallets lets you expand beyond tilting to create richer rhythms, while cleaning cloths and conditioners keep natural hides looking and sounding their best. For a captivating touch, LED lights inside transparent drums enhance visual appeal during sound baths and immersive performances.
Ocean Drums in Popular Music
Ocean drums are prized in ambient, new age, world, and experimental music for their soothing, wave-like tones that add rich texture and mood. Artists like Brian Eno use them to craft immersive soundscapes, Björk incorporates them for organic rhythms and unique textures, and Dead Can Dance employs them to evoke ethereal, ancient atmospheres. Their natural ocean sounds bring emotional depth without overpowering, making ocean drums versatile tools for both performance and therapy.
