The invention relates to a device for setting the tension of a skin, and a musical instrument such as a kettledrum provided with such a device. The device comprises a frame, a first link part and a second link part, both having a longitudinal direction, wherein, adjacent a first end, the first link part is connected to the second link part for pivoting relative to each other about a pivot which extends approximately at right angles to the longitudinal direction, while, adjacent a second end opposite the first end, the first link part is connected to setting means which comprise support means receiving support from the frame, which support means are located between the first and second end of the first link part, while adjacent a second end opposite the first end, the second link part comprises an operating face for operating means, while coupling means are connected to the second link part between the first end second end thereof, the first and second link part extending in said longitudinal direction at the same side of the pivot.