Drums
People say you can't have a Pow Wow without a Drum, for it carries the
heartbeat of the nation. It is also believed to carry the heartbeat of Mother
Earth, and thus calls the spirits and Nations together.
The Pow Wow Drum is covered with hide (buffalo, deer, or cow). The men blend
their voices with the beating of the Drum to create the song. The songs are
often in the language of the Drum members. It is the responsibility of the Drum
members, and especially the lead singer, to be able to sing and play whatever
kind of song is requested by the master of ceremonies or the arena director
for any given event (e.g., flag raising, honouring ceremony, different styles of
dances).
The Drum is a representation of the heart of Mother Earth, round in shape and
rich with life. Appropriately, it is to be treated with respect and care, and strict
behaviour is expected of anyone coming in contact with the Drum. The Drum
is often thought to help bring the physical and mental side of a person back in
touch with his or her spiritual or heart side. As with many things in the culture,
the Drum is used to bring balance and rejuvenation to a person through their
participation in dancing, singing or listening to the heartbeat.
POW WOW 2020
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