Aug 21, 2008
Native Drumming 101: The Beater
The “beater” is the drumming stick used to resonate the drum. The basics are this:
Beaters can be made of some type of hardwood. Types common in the pacific northwest include hazelnut and cherry. Some prefer a synthetic handle, like fiberglass.
The head is typically hand sewn leather stuffed with batting of cotton or more commonly polyester. Many stuff the head on the stick, then carefully remove it, keeping the hole left by the stick intact. Glue is added in the hole, and the head placed back on the stick. There’s nothing worse than getting into the groove of a great drumming session and having the head fly off your beater!!
Once the head is glued in place the opening of the head is taped in place and wound with a leather strip for appearance. Beading is not usually recommended on a beater because of it’s active nature, the beads will often fall off.
The other end of the beater is the handle, and this end can be wrapped with a leather strip for comfort and looks. Fringe can be added at the end of the stick as well.
This photo contains a one of my first custom-made beater’s, and it’s very ornate. Remember, beaters are designed for durability and not looks. You can make your own, take a class at The Healing Drum Retreat, or buy a custom-made or ready-made beater at the Shaman Store.
