As we examine historical records, we find that the drum or a similar type instrument dates back to approximately 6000 BC or even sooner as some archeologist estimate. Drums were found in every single part of the world making it a universal instrument for all peoples in every time period.

Some drums were just hollowed out logs or tree trunks that were beaten upon usually hollowed out with hot coals. Some logs were chiseled out by hand using sharpened stones or later with metal tools. Later in history animal skins were used on the hollowed out logs which produce the sound of the drum. the pitch of the drum is determined by the tension and type of animal skin used.

Modern drums are made of everything from plastic to basic metal, wood rings and some even exist in iron, bronze and steel.

Native Americans used wood and gourd drums for every type of ritual and ceremony. Some of the drums they made were large enough to hold several dancers; these very large drums are still used to this day. In many parts of Africa, the drum is used to interpret daily life and also used as a method of communication with other tribes and villages The message conveyed was determined by the pattern of beats used on the drum. The drum is being used today by many religious and spiritual groups To many people, the drum is a venerated and sacred instrument and often permeated with spiritual symbols and at times given a gender; It has been referred to as an instrument of the heartbeat of Mother Earth. Drum circles all over the world are cropping up for many and varied reasons. We follow the ritual preparatory ceremonies in the making of our hand-made drums and our special drums.

Research has found that drumming greatly reduces stress thus causing an increase in the effectiveness of the immune system. Drumming circles also create a very unique connectiveness with all the participants. The latest scientific statistical information, shows that drumming can be instrumental in healing, and also boosting the immune system's response.

DRUM CARE

Many traditions view the drum as a living sacred instrument. If your drum is made of wood and an animal rawhide then the Spirit of both exists in your drums a new user of your drum, you will gradually find that unique and powerful connection develops. almost as if the drum is an extension of yourself the more your handle and play your drum.

You should clean your drum periodically with a quality rawhide cleansing cream and oil it with Shay butter every few months in areas of most stress.

It is advisable that you buy or make a drum carrying case out of a natural fiber material such as wool or cotton. Never leave your drum in direct sunlight or where there might be sudden changes of temperature as this could cause the hide to crack or the wood ring to warp. It is possible to adjust the tone of your drum using warm steam from an iron or by taking your drum when you shower. this will help lower the tone of your drum. If however you wish to increase the tone of your drum. then add heat to the hide such as sunlight or a hair dryer but not for a long period of time.

You will find that the seasons of the year greatly affect the sound of your drum. Winter time the tone is usually lower whereas in the summertime, the tone tends to be higher due to the heat of the day.

Remember that rawhide drums are most responsive to heat and moisture so please adjust the tone of your drum very very carefully!!! Due to the climate in Colorado and similar areas, we do not recommend using deer hide; elk or steer hide are much better for drums.

Don't hesitate to contact me with questions relating to drum repair.

See Also Medicine Bags and Drum Tote and Storage Bags