Drum-Making Workshop

Our recent drum-making workshop, under the expert guidance of Coast Salish Elder Chiaxst’n, also known as Wesley Nahanee, was a profound cultural and creative experience. Wesley Nahanee is not only a respected Elder within his community but also a multi-talented artist, proficient in painting and carving, and a dedicated keeper of Indigenous knowledge. His leadership in the workshop provided an invaluable opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Indigenous craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

The event saw the participation of nine clients, each keen on learning the art of drum-making—a practice deeply rooted in the traditions of many Indigenous peoples across North America, including the Coast Salish communities. Drums are much more than musical instruments in Indigenous cultures; they are seen as living entities that carry the heartbeat of Mother Earth, connecting the physical and spiritual worlds. The act of making a drum is, therefore, not just a craft but a deeply spiritual journey that binds the maker to the drum in a relationship of respect and mutual care.

Over the course of two days, the workshop was filled with a vibrant energy and a profound sense of gratitude. Participants were guided through the meticulous process of crafting their drums, beginning with the selection of materials. Traditional Aboriginal drums are typically made using wooden frames and animal hides, such as deer, elk, or buffalo. The process involves soaking the hide to make it pliable, stretching it over the frame, and securing it in place until it dries and tightens, producing a resonant sound when struck.

Wesley shared stories and teachings about the significance of drums in Coast Salish culture, emphasizing the importance of intention and respect in the creation process. Participants learned not only the technical skills required to craft a drum but also the cultural values and spiritual beliefs that imbue these instruments with meaning.

The workshop was a space of learning, sharing, and connection, fostering an appreciation for the rich cultural traditions of the Coast Salish peoples. As participants worked on their drums, they engaged in a dialogue of cultures, histories, and personal experiences, contributing to a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous knowledge and traditions.

By the end of the workshop, each participant had created not just a drum but a personal symbol of their journey and connection to the teachings shared by Wesley. The event underscored the importance of cultural preservation and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge, offering a powerful reminder of the beauty and depth of Coast Salish traditions and the enduring relevance of drum-making in connecting us to the earth and each other.