Drums, integral components of Indigenous cultures across North America, arrive in communities through various avenues. Some are cherished heirlooms, passed down through generations, carrying with them the stories and spirit of ancestors. Others are gifted to drum groups, strengthening community bonds and ensuring the continuity of tradition. While older drums often feature hides from deer, elk, or even horse, reflecting the resources readily available and the deep connection to the natural world, contemporary bass drums can be purchased or meticulously renovated. Regardless of their origin or age, drums are often blessed in sacred ceremonies, imbuing them with spiritual significance.
The Drum: More Than Just a Musical Instrument
To those who own, care for, and play it, the drum transcends the limitations of a mere musical instrument. It is imbued with a life of its own, a powerful entity deserving of reverence and respect. Certain drum groups undertake specific ceremonies, seeking blessings for their drums and bestowing upon them names that reflect their unique spirit. The drum is understood to possess its own potent spiritual energy, a force that resonates with the community and the natural world. Offerings are made to the drum, acknowledging its importance, and in some traditions, sacred medicine pipes are associated with it, further emphasizing its connection to spiritual practices and healing. Depending on the specific cultural tradition, the drum may symbolize the heartbeat of the people, a rhythmic pulse that connects them to their history and identity. In other contexts, it embodies the powerful medicine of thunder, evoking the raw energy and transformative potential of the natural world.
Respect for the Sacred Object
Regardless of the specific cultural nuances, a universal principle dictates that the drum must always be treated with the utmost respect. It is regarded as a sacred object or entity, deserving of reverence and care. Practical manifestations of this respect include abstaining from placing anything on the drum’s surface and refraining from reaching across it. These seemingly simple actions acknowledge the drum’s elevated status and prevent any perceived disrespect. Many drums are even associated with their own unique songs, melodies and rhythms that are intrinsically linked to their history and spirit. These songs are often sung as a warm-up at the beginning of a pow wow or celebration, setting the tone for the event and invoking the spirit of the drum.
The Heartbeat of the Nation
The rhythmic beat of the drum is often likened to a heartbeat, a life-giving pulse that connects individuals to their community and their heritage. The rhythm often begins slowly, gradually increasing in tempo and intensity as the singers become more deeply immersed in the song. This dynamic rhythm mirrors the ebb and flow of life itself, reflecting the energy and emotion of the moment. The drumsticks, wielded by the singers, serve as conduits, connecting them to the power of the drum and amplifying their voices in a unified expression of cultural identity. Through the drum, singers and dancers become participants in a shared experience, united by the rhythm and the spirit of the music.
Judging the Drum: Rhythm and Unison
In competitive settings, such as pow wows, the drumming is judged primarily on the rhythm and execution of the songs performed for dance contests and intertribal songs. A wide array of rhythms and drum beats exist, each meticulously crafted for specific types of songs and dances. Each contest song requires a distinct rhythmic pattern, demanding precision and expertise from the drummers. The drum beats must be perfectly timed, and each player must be in perfect unison, creating a cohesive and powerful sound that reflects the unity and skill of the drum group. The synchronization and accuracy of the drumming are crucial elements in determining the quality and impact of the performance.
The basic drum beats encompass a range of rhythmic patterns, each with its own distinct character and purpose. The "roll" is a rapid and continuous drum beat, often used to build excitement and anticipation. The "slow steady processional beat" provides a measured and dignified rhythm, typically used for ceremonial entrances and processions. The "Omaha beat," characterized by a specific rhythmic pattern, is frequently employed in round dances, fostering a sense of community and shared movement. The "social dance beat," strongly accented with a pattern like (121212), ranges from medium to fast tempo, encouraging lively and energetic participation. It is important to note that the stereotypical drum beat often depicted in movies and old Westerns is often inaccurate and does not reflect the authentic rhythms and traditions of Indigenous drumming.
The Host Drum: An Honored Guest
The Host Drum holds a position of honor and responsibility within the pow wow community. Selected by the Pow Wow Committee, the Host Drum is an invited drum group chosen for their skill, reputation, and ability to lead and inspire others. They are frequently called upon to perform special songs or participate in ceremonies, adding their unique voice and energy to the event. The Host Drum serves as a focal point, guiding the rhythm and setting the tone for the pow wow. Their presence adds a layer of prestige and cultural significance to the celebration. More than that, the Host Drum is considered to be a leader in the pow wow community and sets the standard for all other drums.
The Pow Wow Drum: A Unifying Force
The pow wow drum is central to the entire pow wow experience. It is the heart of the event, carrying the heartbeat of Mother Earth and the Indigenous nation. Its rhythmic pulse serves as a call to the spirits and a unifying force that brings nations together. A pow wow is simply not complete without the pow wow drum to carry the beat, guide the dancers, and inspire the singers. The drum is the foundation upon which the entire celebration is built.
Typically, the pow wow drum is a large bass drum covered with hide, traditionally buffalo, deer, or cow, reflecting the close relationship between Indigenous people and the animal world. Around the drum, eight or more men form a circle, striking the drum in unison with covered mallets. This synchronized drumming creates a powerful and resonant sound that fills the arena. The men then blend their voices with the beating of the drum to create the song. These songs are often sung in the Indigenous language of the drum members, preserving cultural traditions and honoring their ancestors.
The drum members, particularly the lead singer, bear the responsibility of being able to sing and play any type of song requested by the master of ceremonies or the arena director for a given event. This includes songs for flag raisings, honoring ceremonies, and various kinds of dances. Their versatility and skill are essential to ensuring the smooth and meaningful execution of the pow wow.
According to tradition, the drum was brought to the Indigenous people by a woman, imbuing it with a feminine spirit that resides within. This spirit commands respect and care, and strict behavior is expected of anyone coming into contact with the drum. The drum is seen as a sacred entity, deserving of reverence and consideration.
The drum is often believed to help restore balance and harmony within individuals, bringing the physical and mental aspects of a person back in touch with their spiritual or heart side. As with many aspects of Indigenous culture, the drum serves as a tool for healing and rejuvenation. Through participation in dancing, singing, or simply listening to the heartbeat of the drum, individuals can find solace, connection, and a renewed sense of well-being. The drum is a powerful symbol of cultural identity, spiritual connection, and community unity, playing a vital role in the preservation and celebration of Indigenous traditions.