Wadaiko

Nagadou Daiko

Nagadou Daiko (meaning "long-bodied drum") is the most popular type of wadaiko, on which leather is riveted directly onto a hollowed body. With a distinguished tone and volume, and an appearance to match, Nagadou Daiko is a central figure in ensemble performances.
The diameter of a Nagadou Daiko is usually between 1 to 2 shaku (30 to 60 cm), but may be as large as 6 shaku (approx. 180 cm). For the body, keyaki (Japanese Zelkova) is the wood of choice due to its density and beautiful grain, but a number of other woods (collectively referred to as "meari") are also used.
When selecting a Nagadou Daiko as a member of an ensemble, you should select its size to balance the rest of the ensemble. Consult your ensemble leader to decide on the size, the leather tension, and the stand. A decision based solely on your budget may lead you to an instrument that has little or no use within your ensemble.

♪Nagadou Daiko sound sample

Nagadou Daiko on four-legged stand
Diameter: 1.6 shaku (48 cm)
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on cross stand
Diameter: 1.4 shaku (42 cm)
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on angled cross stand
Diameter: 1.2 shaku (36 cm)
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on upright stand
Diameter: 1.6 shaku (48 cm)
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on angled stand
Diameter: 1.8 shaku (55 cm)
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on angled
Chichibu stand
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on one-legged stand
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on Ninoji stand
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder

Nagadou Daiko on Okyou stand
Material: Keyaki (Japanese Zelkova)
Body finish: Tonoko polishing powder