Jan 31, 2009
Drum Making- Who where & how? Part 3 of 3
We’ve talked before about the art of drum making. The process is magical, seeing the matching of drum maker and hide, the weaving of the sinew and careful tightening, and the heartful anticipation of the sound that will emanate from this creation. Challenges always arise as the drums are built, but somehow everything turns out as it should. This is the art of drum making – taking thoughtful steps yet allowing the drum to become its own creation.
Today we will bring into focus the fellowship that is found in a group drum making event. Last summer, at the onset of the summer Healing Drum Retreat, we had several attendee’s making their own drums. With several tables full of hides, rings and sinew, we saw the weaving together of many beautiful drums accompanied by shining, smiling faces.
The evening did not end with the completion of this handful of drums. No, the supply table was full of many more drum rings, and in the water bucket there were still soaking hides, waiting for their chance for transformation. These drums were charity drums, and would be sold at Brighton Creek and other locations to help fund scholarships for children to attend Unity Works retreat weekends.
What happened next was amazing. We saw teamwork in the first round of drums, but now these individuals had the opportunity to use those new found skills again in an act of service. Many of the attendees offered their time and energy, and we felt the rush of synergy as drum after drum came together. We finally called it an evening just after midnight.
In 2008 there were 30 charity drums altogether created by the efforts of volunteers. This accomplishment was brought together by the skillful coordination of our drum making teacher, Kaye Taywakeena. What will come together in 2009 is yet to be seen, but we are all confident that the uplifting alliance of these group events will again shine.
