Playing Native American Hand Drums In Drumming Groups And Ceremonies

As an interior designer, I have always loved Nativecorrectly, the long thin strip of wood curled to form
American hand drums for their natural beauty whena hoop that measured two to six feet in length,
used for western decor, and for the significant roledepending on the size of the hand drum desired.
they play in American Indian drum music. Most peopleOnce the drum ring was properly bent, it was held
I come in contact with are not aware that thesewith one end overlapping the other and kept in place
hand drums are some of the most famous culturalwith a piece of rawhide lacing. Allowed to dry
icons in the world. For hundreds of years, Americannaturally outdoors, the remaining moisture in the hand
Indian people relied on their belief in the unique powerdrum hoop would evaporate, allowing the ring to
of these drums for spiritual and healing purposes, andshrink to the right size.
have always regarded the hand drum as a prizedAs you look into the history of the many tribal hand
possession among all Native American musicaldrums made, you will learn that they were covered
instruments.on either one, or both sides of the drum hoop with
Even though all Native American drums haveanimal skin. Various woods and hides were used
corresponding characteristics about them, you maydepending on the Indian tribe and where they were
not realize that native drums vary in many waysat geographically, but the most used materials were
according to tribe. Some tribes use the hand drumpine, and goat skin. These days, Native American
exclusively in secret ceremonies, whereas in others,hand drums are made using a variety of animal hides,
they are the main focus of the public event orbut traditionally, goat skin rawhide was the preferred
powwow. Native people also use these hand heldskin because of its stretching ability and sound quality.
musical instruments for dancing, personal meditatingToday, you can easily find Native American hand
and in sweat lodges. No matter how they are used,drums online and in stores that specialize in
the hand drum still plays a key role in American Indiansouthwestern and American Indian home decor.
music and in Native culture today.Whether adorned on the wall in a cabin or lodge to
When choosing one of these beautiful drums to addenhance rustic decor, or simply being played for
to your western style home decor or for playing in aceremonial drumming, these Native drums will add
drum group, it is important to choose one made withgreat charm to your home and environment. If you
quality materials similar to the original materials used.are interested in authenticity and traditional American
The original, all natural hand held drums usedIndian values, you will definitely enjoy owning and
throughout Native American history, were made ofdisplaying authentic Native American hand drums.
wood cut from a fallen tree trunk. When cut