Because of my career in interior design, I have always loved Native American hand drums for their simplistic beauty when used for rustic decor, and for the significant role they play in American Indian drum music. Most people I come across do not realize that these hand drums are some of the most famous cultural representations in the world. For centuries, American Indian people relied on their belief in the unique power of these drums for spiritual and healing purposes, and have always considered the hand drum as a prized possession among all Native American musical instruments.
Though all Native American drums have comparable characteristics about them, you may not realize that native drums are different in many forms according to tribe. Some tribes use the hand drum exclusively in secret ceremonies, whereas in others, they are the focal point of the public event or powwow. Native people also use these hand held musical instruments for dancing, personal meditating and in sweat lodges. No matter how they are used, the hand drum continues to play a key role in American Indian music and in Native culture today.
When choosing one of these beautiful drums to add to your western style home decor or for playing in a drum circle, it is wise to choose one made with quality materials similar to the original materials used. The original, all natural hand held drums used throughout Native American history, were made of wood cut from a downed tree trunk. When cut correctly, the long thin strip of wood curled to make a ring that measured two to six feet in length, depending on the size of the hand drum desired. Once the drum ring was properly bent, it was held with one end overlapping the other and held in place with a piece of rawhide lacing. Allowed to dry slowly in the open air, the remaining wetness in the hand drum hoop would evaporate, allowing the ring to shrink to the final size.
As you look into the history of the different tribal hand drums made, you will notice that they were covered on either one, or both sides of the drum hoop with animal skin. Various woods and hides were used depending on the Indian tribe and where they were located geographically, but the most used materials were pine, and goat skin. These days, Native American hand drums are made and come in a variety of exotic hides, but traditionally, goat skin rawhide was the preferred skin because of its special stretching and sound quality.
Now days, you can readily find Native American hand drums online and in stores that sell western and country home decor. Whether placed on the wall in a cabin or lodge to enhance rustic decor, or simply being used for ceremonial drumming, these Native drums will add great character to your home and environment. If you are inspired with authenticity and traditional American Indian values, you will definitely enjoy having and displaying authentic Native American hand drums.
About The Author
Craig Chambers is the director of Mission Del Rey and author offering free information online about how you can use Native American hand drums for American Indian drumming and for chic Native American home decor. For more information visit http://www.missiondelrey.com
