FAQ's
Shipping & Online Order Questions (Canada & USA)
1. How fast will my order arrive?
We aim to prepare and ship your order within 2–3 business days. However, because of the artisan nature and small size of our business, we can experience shipping delays, especially around holidays or during winter storms when everything can shut down in Quebec. If you’re on a tight deadline to receive your instrument, please contact us at info@tamtammania.shop before ordering.
2. Which shipping carriers do you use?
We ship with Canada Post, USPS, and Chit Chats. Depending on your location and the type of parcel, we’ll choose the most reliable and cost-effective option for your order.
3. Where do you ship from?
We ship from Quebec, Canada via Canada Post or Chit Chats. Once your package crosses the border into the United States, it is handled by USPS.
You may be required to pay additional fees, duties, or taxes — these are the responsibility of the customer.
You will receive a tracking number by email once your order ships. If you don’t see it, please check your spam or “Other” folder.
4. Do you ship djembes and West African percussion across Canada and the United States?
Yes — we proudly ship authentic, handcrafted djembes and West African percussion anywhere in Canada and the United States. Every instrument is inspected and tuned in our Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu workshop before it leaves. We pack your drum with care so it arrives safe, secure, and ready for its first rhythm.
5. How do you protect djembes during shipping?
Each djembe is wrapped, padded, and boxed using our custom system designed specifically for African drums. We protect the edges, the skin, and the shell so your instrument can travel thousands of kilometers without risk. We’ve shipped hundreds of djembes successfully — your drum is in expert hands.
6. Do you ship dunduns, krins, and other West African instruments?
Absolutely. We ship dunduns, sangbans, kenkenis, krins, wassawoumbas, and more. Each instrument is inspected and tuned so you receive a high-quality, ready-to-play piece of West African percussion.
7. Do you offer free shipping?
We do our best to keep shipping rates as low as possible. We’re a small company and cannot compete with big box or marketplace giants like Amazon, so we appreciate your support in choosing to buy from a local, artisan-focused business.
8. Can you ship internationally?
We currently have shipping enabled for Canada and the USA. To enquire about shipping to another country, please contact us at info@tamtammania.shop and we’ll look at possible options. Please keep in mind that all orders ship from Quebec, Canada.
9. Can I track my order?
Yes. Once you’ve placed your order, you’ll receive a confirmation email. As soon as your package ships, you’ll get a second email with your tracking number. If you do not see a shipping confirmation in your inbox, please check your spam or “Other” folder.
Once the carrier scans your package, the estimated delivery date will update based on their system.
10. Do I have to pay duties or customs if I live in the U.S.?
Most U.S. customers receive their instruments without duty fees, but some states may apply customs or taxes depending on the order value. We complete all required documentation to ensure smooth border processing. If duties apply, they are the responsibility of the customer, and you’ll know exactly what to expect from the carrier.
11. What is your exchange and refund policy?
We want you to love your instrument. If for any reason you’re not completely satisfied, you may return your item in its original condition within 7 days of receiving it for a refund, exchange, or store credit (depending on the situation).
Please click here to learn more about our full policy and conditions.
Authenticity, Materials & Craftsmanship
12. Are your djembes authentic and handcrafted in Africa?
Yes. Every djembe we offer is hand-carved in West Africa by master artisans using traditional methods and responsibly harvested woods. We tune and finish each drum ourselves to ensure it meets the deep, powerful sound that West African djembes are known for. When you order from us, you’re supporting real artisans and real tradition.
13. What woods and skins do you use in your djembes?
Our drums are carved from traditional Guinean and Ghanaian woods like lenke, bala, mahogany, tweneboa, melina and others. These woods are chosen for their particular qualities and resonance. For skins, we mostly use high-quality goat, depending on the sound you prefer: medium goat for a balanced sound, thicker goat for bright, dry slaps that soloists love.
14. What makes your djembes different from factory-made drums?
Factory-made drums can’t match the tone, soul, or craftsmanship of a hand-carved West African djembe. Our instruments are built by artisans with decades of experience, finished and tuned by hand, and made to last for years. When you choose a Tam-Tam Mania djembe, you're choosing an instrument with heritage, depth, and character.
15. Do you offer custom-made djembes?
Yes. If you’re looking for a specific size, carving style, type of wood, rope color, or skin, we can help bring your vision to life. Custom projects are a beautiful way to connect with your drum on a whole new level.
Choosing Your Drum
16. How do I choose the right djembe if I’m buying online?
You’re not choosing alone — we guide you. Tell us your budget, hand size, experience level, and what sound inspires you. We’ll recommend the perfect drum, send photos or videos, and make sure you feel confident in your choice. Your first djembe should feel like it chose you — and we help make that happen.
17. Can I hear the drum before buying it?
Yes. Every drum has its own voice, so we’re happy to send sound clips or short videos of the exact instrument you’re considering. Hearing the tone helps you connect with the drum before it even arrives.
18. What’s the difference between beginner, intermediate, and professional djembes?
Beginner djembes are great for discovering rhythm — lightweight, comfortable, and affordable.
Intermediate djembes offer better woods, bigger sizes, stronger projection, and richer tone.
Professional djembes are made for performers: deep bass, clear slaps, powerful volume, and premium materials (select hardwood only).
We help you choose based on where you are in your drumming journey.
19. Can you guide me in choosing the best instrument for me?
Absolutely. If you’re not sure which drum, dundun, or other instrument is right for you, we’re happy to help. You can reach us by email at info@tamtammania.shop or by phone at (450) 775-5233, and we’ll make sure you get the instrument that fits your level, your hands, and your musical goals.
Lessons, Learning & Online Resources
20. Do you offer online lessons or drumming resources for people who don’t live near your workshop?
Yes — whether you’re a total beginner or brushing up on your technique, you can learn from anywhere. We offer clear, beginner-friendly video lessons and rhythm tutorials so you can grow your drumming skills at your own pace. Please get in touch to get access to our library of videos.
Repairs, Re-skinning & Long-Distance + Local Service
21. Can I ship my djembe to you for repair if I live outside Quebec?
Yes. Many drummers across Canada and the U.S. ship their djembes to us for re-skinning, tuning, repairs, and restoration. We’ll guide you on how to package your drum safely, and we’ll treat your instrument with the same care as if it were our own. Whether you need tuning, rope work, crack repair, or a full skin replacement for my tam tam, we can help.
22. Do you offer tam tam and djembe repair in Montreal and on the South Shore?
Yes — we repair and restore djembes, dunduns, and other percussion for customers across Saint-Mathias, Chambly, Richelieu, Beloeil, Longueuil, Saint-Hyacinthe, and the Montérégie region. Many people looking for tam tam repair in Montreal or on the South Shore come to us for expert, traditional work, including full skin replacement for my tam tam–style re-heading.
Local Customers: Montreal, South Shore & Montérégie
23. Where can I buy a tam tam or djembe in Montreal, on the South Shore, or in Montérégie?
You can buy your tam tam or djembe directly from Tam-Tam Mania. Our workshop in Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu (in Montérégie, on the South Shore of Montreal) is filled with authentic drums handcrafted in West Africa. You can order online and pick up locally, or visit by appointment to try several instruments before choosing the one that calls to you.
24. Where is Tam-Tam Mania located?
Our workshop is located in Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, just minutes from the river. It’s a warm, welcoming space filled with percussion, craftsmanship, and community. Visits are by appointment so we can give you our full attention.
25. Do you offer local pickup?
Yes — if you’re local, you can pick up your order directly from our workshop on the South Shore of Montreal. It’s a great way to meet your new instrument in person and ask questions about care, tuning, or future classes.
25. Can I visit and try djembes in person?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to book a visit, try different djembes, feel their weight, hear their voices, and choose the one that resonates with you. If you’re wondering where to buy a tam tam in Montreal, Quebec, the South Shore, or Montérégie, our workshop is the perfect place to start.
Local Classes, Workshops & Group Orders
27. Do you offer tam tam or djembe classes near Montreal or in Montérégie?
Yes — we host classes and community workshops designed for all levels. If you’re searching for tam tam classes in Montreal or on the South Shore of Montreal, you’re in the right place. Whether you're discovering rhythm for the first time or refining your technique, you’re welcome here.
Get in touch to learn more.
28. Can schools, groups, or community organizations order percussion instruments locally?
Yes — we work with schools, community centers, educators, and groups across Quebec. We can prepare bulk orders and educational packages so you can equip your classroom or organization with quality percussion that inspires real connection and rhythm.
Get in touch to learn more.
