The Birthing of the Drum

 For three days, I had navigated my life in silence, spiraling into the world of
Spirit.  Silence has a way of  supporting that.  Finally, the image came.  Previously in   journey, I had been told I’d be guided in painting my drum.  Now the paints and brushes lay spread on the table before me.  I allowed my mind to drift rather than spinning with questions and self-doubt.

For many who walk a shamanic path, the drum is considered the most powerful and sacred of tools.  Known as the Spirit Horse, we ride its beat and vibration into alternate realities much as if we were riding on the back of a magnificent stallion.  So how exactly do you choose your drum, or how does your drum find you?  How does one forge a relationship with this sacred being and hear what it wishes its role to be?

In silence, Spirit often speaks the loudest - guiding and revealing.  For me, that was how the birthing process started.  I had purchased a drum that had since sat wrapped in its packaging on a desk for no less than three months.  It was clear that birthing this drum was going to be a Spirit directed process that would require dedicated time. 
 
Perhaps you’ve just been gifted a drum or decided to buy one.  Whether you’ve purchased a synthetic Remo Buffalo Drum or been gifted a hide drum of Elk, Buffalo, or some other powerful being, know that how you bring your drum into use is a sacred process.  This birthing involves journeying to the Spirit of the drum with your spirit guides for direction.  Begin the dialogue.  Ask how your drum wants to be of service, if or how it wants to be adorned, and how and when it wants to be dedicated?
 
How ironic it was that the birthing process of this drum would come through silence. The Spirit of the drum was clear.  While other drums have called to be fully birthed into a community, this drum would first be painted, sit in sacred space, and first played in the frigid darkness of a winter night.  Only then would it be willing to sing in circle.
 
The process of birthing your drum will be personal.  Connect with its personality, feel its energy, and don’t rush the process.  The relationship you have with this beautiful being will be as strong as the intent you put toward it.  It is a sacred tool.  Treat it as such.  Hold it dear and respect the power it carries.  It is the beat of your drum that will connect your heart to the heartbeat of this Earth.

Helpful Hints for Acquiring a Drum:
 
Hide Drums:

• These magnificent drums carry the energies of the beautiful animals and trees they’re made from.
  
• Their sound can be affected by humidity.
• They are typically more expensive than synthetic drums.

Synthetic Drums:

• Remo buffalo hand drums may be purchased on Amazon
• Sizes vary, so choose a size that feels comfortable for you. 
• A 16 inch drum is typically a good size choice for an adult.
• Remo hand drums are usually reliable through humid conditions. 
• Most of their surfaces can take acrylic paint well, but consult an art professional to be sure the head of your drum is compatible with the paint you’re intending to use.

 
Why Attend a Drum Making Workshop?

• If you ever have the opportunity to attend a drum-making workshop, please do.
• The most powerful tools are always those you create.
• Though you can always infuse your intention into synthetic or other hide drums, infusing your intentions and love into a drum through the creation process is always a powerfully personal experience.