The tambourine’s origins span millennia, rooted in the ancient civilizations of the Middle East, Greece, and Rome, where it was used in religious and folk traditions. It entered Western orchestral music in the 18th century as part of the "Janissary" music craze, adding rhythmic bite and exotic color. Over time, it evolved from a simple folk frame drum into a highly nuanced concert instrument, capable of the sophisticated thumb rolls and articulate jingle techniques required in modern symphonic repertoire.

The Overture Tambourine is the modern amalgamation of tradition and innovation.