Final answer:
The head of a tympani is typically made out of animal skin, specifically calfskin. It is chosen for its unique sound qualities and can be adjusted to create different pitches.
Step-by-step explanation:
The head of a tympani is typically made out of animal skin, specifically calfskin. The tympani, also known as a kettle drum, is a percussion instrument that has a large bowl-shaped body with a thin membrane stretched over the top.
The animal skin is chosen for its unique sound qualities. It vibrates when struck, producing a distinct tone. The tension of the skin can be adjusted to create different pitches.
Due to its natural material, the calfskin head requires proper care to maintain its quality and longevity.