The Significance of Native American Hand Drums

There is an important history pertaining to Native American hand drums. While many changes have taken place throughout the years, the drumming circles of these proud people still resonate with pride. The sound of drumming speaks to the soul. The voice of Native American hand drums sustained the foundation of Native American music. It could not have stood by vocals alone. It definitely takes the beat of a drum in order for music to be truly called Native American. With the beat of our drums, we dance. The calming and inviting beat of the drum is one of the main foundations for Native American music.

Hand drums are what make Native American music loved and appreciated. The tribal music flows with unique sounds. Native hand drums are constructed much the same way, no matter the tribe. The frame is made of wood, or a hollowed out log. Native Americans used animal skins such as goat, elk and buffalo to stretch over the surface of a drum and secured using a piece of leather. Traditional drums can be large, expanding two to three feet in diameter and used by groups of men.

There are also some variations between tribes in which individual drums are used by men. Some drums are used for the purpose of music and some of are also used for decorative purposes. There are other variations to traditional hand drums like the Iroquois water drum. The water inside this cup shaped drum creates a distinct sound and pitch whenever it is played. The other type is the Yaqui, played with a drum stick and the water acts as the resonator for the drum. The nature of Native American music is appreciated by many. Other instruments will follow the voice of the drum. The percussion starts very slow and progresses rapidly. It becomes more emphatic and adds a very distinct sound that is significantly unique to traditional Native American music. Gender roles are also a vital part of drum usage and vary among tribes. Women usually serve as backup singers as well as dancers. There are some traditions in which men are the ones who are playing. 

Many women believe the Native American drum was given to her by the Great Spirit. This is the reason why women could also use the drums. The rhythmic nature of Native American music is well suited for the beat and dramatic percussion of Native American hand drums. One sided shaman drums are mostly used for ceremonial dances, rituals, as well as storytelling and other traditional activities that define Native American culture and the various aspects of the environment. Pow wows and drumming circles are some of the most popular events where hand drums are used. Many times, drums are used for practices in sweat lodges as well as meditation. There is something very special about Indian drums and many people use them as rustic wall hangings for southwest decor, western home accessories cabin decor. Native American hand drums bring life and positive energy to any space. Click this link to see all of our Native American hand drums and many others.

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