Though the origin of the drum is still unknown, it is an important musical instrument in ancient China. The earliest known record of the application of drums can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty (1600B.C.-1100B.C.).

As time goes by, this old art form undergoes great changes. It borrows and assimilates other artistic forms and expressions and becomes various in different regions.

It is applied in almost every aspect of Chinese social life, such as sacrificial and worshiping ceremonies, farming, warfare, etc. It can produce different visual impacts: sometimes it gives off a sense of invincible might; sometimes it produces graceful dancing steps.