Healing Drum Retreat

Making a drum is far more than technique. There is a spiritual quality about it, choosing the right frame, hide, and finally the drum beater to be used with the drum.

There are several frame styles for drums, with round being the least expensive and most popular. The style of frame chosen will affect the pattern of the lacing and the resulting tone.

Skill comes in play when you are stretching the hide and tightening the sinew or leather pieces. As the leather dries it tightens, giving the drum its resonance and depth in tone. Do not “play” the drum until it is dry. Drying can take a few days, but when the weather is warm a drum can dry overnight. It is better for the drum to dry naturally.

Once your drum is dry you can choose a beater. While a beater does have certain requirements, such as a padded striking head, the technical qualities are not the only consideration. Choosing a beater is also a matter of listening to the drum with both the physical sound and the spiritual overtone. The second of those steps requires stepping out of the mental mind, for the mind cannot comprehend the spiritual aspects.

There are many drums, there are many drummers. Each drummer must find their own heartbeat which leads to their own drum. Kaye Tahwakeena, drum making teacher, has taught many classes and has made over 300 drums. She brings wisdom and compassion into her teachings.