The Origin of Native Drums and Their Meaning

Indigenous drums occupy a central place in the cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples in Canada. They are much more than just musical instruments; they are sacred objects, bearers of spirituality, history and cultural identity. This article explores the origins of Indigenous drums, their profound meaning, their continuing role in the lives of Indigenous communities, and the issues of cultural appropriation associated with their manufacture and commercialization by non-Indigenous people.

The Origins of Native Drums

Native American drums have been present in indigenous cultures across North America for thousands of years. Their precise origins are difficult to determine, as they are an integral part of oral and spiritual traditions passed down through generations. The materials used to make drums vary by region and nation, but the process of making them is always deeply respected and rooted in cultural practices.

Traditionally, drums are made from antlers and animal hides such as deer, moose, caribou, and bison. The circular frame of the drum symbolizes the circle of life, a fundamental concept in Indigenous cultures, representing unity, interconnectedness, and eternity. The skin stretched over the frame is treated with deep respect, as it comes from an animal whose spirit is honored through the use of the drum.

The Spiritual Meaning of Drums

For Indigenous peoples in Canada, the drum is often considered the “heartbeat of Mother Earth.” It is a sacred link between the physical and spiritual worlds. When the drum resonates, it calls forth the spirits and creates a connection between humans, ancestors, and the Creator. This resonance is believed to align the rhythm of human life with that of the Earth and the universe.

Drums are used in a variety of settings, including religious ceremonies, powwows, healings, and community gatherings. Each nation has its own songs and rhythms associated with its spiritual and cultural traditions. For example, drums used at powwows accompany traditional songs and dances, creating a sacred space for celebration and unity.

The different types of indigenous drums

1. The Hand Drum

The hand drum is one of the most common types of drums among Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is often used in personal or community ceremonies. Its small size makes it easily portable and plays a vital role in chanting and prayer. The hand drum is also used in healing circles, where it helps restore harmony between body, mind, and spirit.

2. The Frame Drum

The frame drum is similar to the hand drum but can vary in size and function. It is sometimes hung and struck with mallets, producing a powerful sound that resonates during large ceremonies. This drum is often used at spiritual gatherings to call forth spirits and unite participants in a single beat.

3. The Pow-Wow Drum

  The Pow Wow drum is a large drum, usually struck by several players at once. It is at the heart of Pow Wows, where it provides rhythm to dances and songs for hours or even days. The Pow Wow drum is often considered a member of the community in its own right, treated with the utmost respect.

The drum as a symbol of resistance and resilience

Beyond their spiritual and cultural role, Indigenous drums are also powerful symbols of resistance and resilience for Indigenous peoples in Canada. For decades, colonial policies sought to erase Indigenous cultural traditions, including the use of drums, by banning ceremonies and forcing assimilation. However, Indigenous communities resisted these attempts by continuing to practice and pass on their musical and spiritual traditions.

Today, drums are used at protests, Indigenous rights marches, and other public events to demand recognition and respect for Indigenous cultures. The beating of the drum is a reminder of the strength and vitality of Indigenous peoples, despite the historical and contemporary challenges they have faced.

The issues of cultural appropriation

With the growing popularity of Indigenous spiritual practices, drums have become objects of interest to non-Indigenous people, who sometimes make them for commercial purposes or host drum-making workshops. This trend raises significant concerns about cultural appropriation.

Cultural appropriation occurs when elements of one culture are adopted by another culture in a disrespectful or exploitative way. In the case of Indigenous drums, this may include the making or selling of drums by non-Indigenous people without a deep understanding of their spiritual significance, or without permission from the Indigenous communities involved. Additionally, the commercialization of these sacred objects can dilute their meaning and contribute to the perpetuation of cultural stereotypes.

It is crucial that non-Indigenous people recognize and respect the significance of Indigenous drums by refraining from making or using them inappropriately. Those who wish to learn more about Indigenous drums should seek to do so through appropriate educational sources, ideally by consulting with Indigenous elders or leaders and participating in ceremonies with respect and humility.

The Revival of Indigenous Drums

In recent years, there has been a revival of drumming traditions among younger generations of Indigenous people. Drum-making workshops, drum circles, and educational programs on the history and significance of drums have become increasingly popular. This revival is a strong sign of the continuity and revitalization of Indigenous cultures in Canada.

Drumming also plays an important role in reconciliation, as a way to educate non-Indigenous people about the importance of Indigenous spiritual traditions and to foster respectful dialogue between cultures.

Conclusion

Indigenous drums are more than just musical instruments; they are sacred objects that embody the spirituality, history, and identity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. From their respectful crafting to their use in ceremonial and community settings, drums are at the heart of Indigenous life. They serve as reminders of Indigenous peoples’ deep connection to Mother Earth, while symbolizing their resilience in the face of historical oppression. By understanding and respecting the significance of drums, we can better appreciate the richness of Indigenous cultures and support their continued renaissance.

Sources:

- The Canadian Encyclopedia - Indigenous Drums

- Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. - The Significance of the Drum