Definition

A small, shallow drum with a single head, historically played with a stick or hand to accompany medieval and Renaissance music, often paired with a pipe. Common in European folk music and court entertainment.

Example Usage

The minstrel played a lively tune on the pipe while his partner beat the tabor.

Origin

From Old French 'tabor,' derived from Arabic 'al-tabl,' reflecting the instrument's Middle Eastern origins and its adoption into European musical traditions.

Fun Fact

The tabor-and-pipe combination was the most popular street entertainment of medieval Europe and required incredible skill to play both instruments simultaneously.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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