DRUMS AND RATTLES
The drum’s rhythmic power is like the heartbeat of the Earth, and is deeply anchored in our shamanic practice. We journey on the drum-beat to the Spirit-world and return with power. The drum and the rattle are, on one hand, the tools of our trade, and on the other hand, our allies with their own power and soul. In shamanic work, traditionally, hand-held tambourine-like drums are used together with a drumstick. But where does one find a drum? Which should one choose? Should it be a factory made drum, or hand made? Do you think about making your own, but don’t have the tools or experience? Should the skin be from an animal, or is it all right with a synthetic drumskin? The most important is that this partner feels good to you, that the sound is pleasing to you, that you can dance with its power, that you can work together.

Rattles are filled with power and at the same time act as power antennae. In many parts of the world they are used together with drums, and in Siberia they are often built into the drum or drumstick. They are easy to carry, and don’t bother your neighbors if you live in a flat. They also tend to be much less expensive than drums, and many shops selling goods from “third world” countries have beautiful, powerful, inexpensive rattles for sale. You can learn more about rattles and how to make your own by reading Jonathan’s article POWER IN YOUR HAND.

Mass Produced Drums are not as expensive as hand-made drums, and generally have a good sound. They are available at music stores, and the ones with synthetic skins can be used outside in the rain or very humid places. The Remo company makes some nice ones, which are easy to personalize. Even a plastic drum has a Spirit. Respect it, and it will help you.

Handmade Drums and Rattles are getting easier to find as there are more and more people making them. Below we have listed some of the drum makers we know and have worked with. Several of them also hold drum and rattle making courses. Here you make your own drum. The drum-making is done in a ritual way with awareness, and in this way you get to acquainted with the Spirit of your instrument as it makes itself known. If you wish to try to make your own drum or rattle from scratch, the best book is still Bernard Masons How to Make Drums, Tom-Toms, and Rattles (Dover) which gives you many types to choose from. Also recommended is Nicholas Wood’s fine book Voices from the Earth.

Drumming CDs are another option. Many people who don’t have the money for a drum, or the time to go on a course, find that the alternative of using a drumming CD or audio-tape works very well, using either a headset, thereby not disturbing others, or speakers. This option should never be used in moving vehicles of any kind, and should be regarded with the same respect as other allies used for contacting the Spirit world.

SCANDINAVIAN
CENTER FOR
SHAMANIC STUDIES

Jonathan Horwitz & Annette Høst
Artillerivej 63, lejl. 140
2300 København S
Danmark

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