Mar 19, 2009
From Hide to Drum – Finding the Right Fit part III
Preparing hides for drum making takes muscle, and a lot of planning. Kaye states, “There can be variance in the thickness of the hide, and this will effect how much the hide will stretch when you build your drum. I’ve build many drums, and know how to work with the hide, and how to talk with the animal spirit.” This connection to the animal spirit becomes clear during the drum making class, and we give a special blessing and prayer of honor to each drum during their drying process.
“Not only do you have a good round but you also have to match the ring and hide to the drum maker”, Kaye shares, “Okay, call it a kind of match making, and I love to play matchmaker!”
With a smile and a sparkle Kaye continues, “Drum making is about listening to the spirit of the animal as well as our higher guidance”. I’ve seen this in the several drum making classes and charity drum making events that I’ve watched Kaye teach, and the resulting drums were truly amazing. Its a pleasure to know this loving, playful woman, and we have a great time planning and offering the Healing Drum Retreat as co-coordinators.
We managed to measure and cut 15 horse and 15 buffalo hides. Some of the hides are already dedicated, such as the ceremonial drum we’ll build before the summer Healing Drum Retreat, and some will be matched with drum maker at the March 20, 2009 Drum Making class at Brighton Creek near Yelm, WA.
There may be extra supplies available, so if you think it’s too late to sign up for this drum making class, no worries! Just give Brighton Creek a call at 360-458-4510 and leave a message for Kaye with a phone number you can be reached at during the day. Hides will be soaked during the day prior to the evening drum making class, so call early to verify we can accomodate your last-minute spot in the class!!
