The Sacred Way of the Drum

Moonshadow workshops are conducted with care and respect for all Native Traditions and for participants of their workshops. Please note however, that this workshop is at times active and participants will be encouraged to fully partake in sacred ceremony.

Some parts of this workshop may be conducted outside, weather permitting.

Waken Tankan Nici Un (May the Great Spirit walk with you)

The history of the drums goes back as early as the time when society was very much in its infant stage. The vibrations of the drums are in tune with the earth's natural frequency and its round form represents the circle of life as well as the universe. Hence in all aspects, the drum connects us to life. It is noteworthy, that for hundreds of years, the basic design of the drum has remained unchanged.

Like all other tribal societies, Native American people also consider music to be an integral part of life because it serves as a medium to maintain their spiritual relationship with the creator. Through drumbeats, several Native American Indian traditions were passed down from one generation to another. The drum is not only a deep, sacred part of the American-Indian culture, but it happens to be the heartbeat that sets the rhythm of their dance and the tempo of their song.

All the first nation's songs like the Powwow, ceremonial songs, social dances and free styles are greatly accompanied by a Native American drum - be it the Big East native drums or hand drums. Apart from songs and dance, drums are used for healing and chanting too.

In the American Indian society, the drum is considered to have an entity of its own. It is believed that the drum is a living thing and inside it are the spirits of the animals and trees of which it is made. When the drum is struck, its sound calls for the attention of the creator as well as the spirit of their forefathers.

When a drum finds a partner, the beginning of a lifelong relationship is marked. At various yearly intervals, the care and maintenance of the drum is entrusted on responsible families, which are selected through a delicate process. The first son of the selected family then becomes a drum keeper.

• History of the Drum
• Use of the Drum in ceremony and healing
• Use of the Drum today
• The Native American Hand Drum
• Making a Native American Hand Drum

All materials will be included in the workshop fee, for you tomake and take home with you, a 16" Native Amer ican hand drum worth £130 at retail price. This alone recoups the cost of the day and is only a part of this amazing experience!

Participants wishing to take part in this workshop and the Introduction to Shamanism workshop on 29th July, both workshops will be offered for £150 including all materials, a saving of £20.