Experimental and numerical modal analysis of the traditional percussion instrument "Erbane"

This study investigated the dynamic and vibroacoustic behaviors of the traditional Middle Eastern percussion instrument "Erbane" using experimental and numerical methods. The natural frequencies of the instrument were determined by modal analysis method and the numerical model created with the obtained natural frequencies was verified. Acoustic-driven structural analysis was performed to verify the mode shapes obtained from the numerical model. Erbane was acoustically driven through a loudspeaker, and the vibration response was measured using a laser vibrometer. Thus, the numerical model results were completed with the mode shapes precisely determined by the laser vibrometer. This study provided a better understanding of the vibration behaviors of Erbane and provided an opportunity for future studies to be carried out with percussion instruments. The experimental analyses were performed within a frequency range of 0–800 Hz, and the numerical simulations covered up to 1000 Hz to ensure comprehensive modal characterization. This study is the first to apply combined Experimental Modal Analysis (EMA) and Finite Element Modeling (FEM) validation to the traditional Erbane drum, offering new insights into its vibrational behavior and validating up to the 6th mode with <8 % deviation in modal frequencies.