Choosing a Shamanic Drum
Guidance and information about the different styles of drums that we make and the materials that we use, to help you in choosing the right Shamanic Drum for you. Whether it is for a bespoke drum order, choosing one from the online shop, or for a drum birthing workshop, the guides below give the associations and symbolism of the different styles and materials to help you.
how to choose a shamanic drum
Take a look at our guidance page on how to choose the right Shamanic Drum for you
OUR GUIDE TO CHOOSING A SHAMANIC DRUM
Often, people choose a drum because they feel particularly drawn to it, or because of a strong feeling that they had when they saw it. Some people choose a drum because they feel called to a particular animal spirit with the hide or tree spirit with the wooden hoop.
Often I receive inquiries from people because it is not immediately clear which drum they should look to work with, and so are looking for advise on how to choose a drum. Here, I have compiled the following information with the hope that it can help you work through the questions you may have.
Size
What is the best size for my Shamanic Drum?
We have a wide range of sizes available at Heron Drums, starting with our smallest at 10" diameter up to our largest hand drum at 24" and largest ceremonial drum at 35" diameter. Smaller drums produce quite a high pitch sound, whereas the larger drums produce a very deep tone. It is common that people are seeking a drum with a deep tone, and this is most directly related to the size of the drum.
There are practical considerations, also, regarding the size of the drum that you choose as a larger drum can often be heavier. The majority of drums that we make and that we stock at Heron Drums are 16", 18" and 20”, with 18" being the most common, maintaining the balance of weight while still having a deep tone. This makes them great drums for working with in healing and journeying.
Our newest Ovoid Shamanic Drums, because of their shape make it much easier to balance the weight of a larger drum as they are taller and not so wide.
Hide
What is the spiritual meaning and symbolism of the hides that we use for your Shamanic Drums?
By choosing a drum birthed with natural products, you invite the wisdom and medicine of the trees and animals into your life. Here are a few details about the common symbolism of the different hides and woods that make up our drums at Heron Drums.
REINDEER
Reindeer hold spiritual significance in various cultures, including Celtic mythology and their connection to Elen of the Ways. In Celtic lore, reindeer are associated with the divine feminine and possess mystical qualities. They represent endurance, adaptability, and the ability to navigate through challenging terrains. Elen of the Ways, an antlered goddess in Celtic mythology, is closely linked to reindeer. She is revered as a deity of pathways and transformation, guiding travelers through physical and spiritual journeys. As a reindeer goddess, Elen embodies the qualities of agility, grace, and the ability to navigate both the physical and spiritual realms.
Reindeer, under Elen's guidance, symbolize the power of movement, the transformative nature of journeys, and the connection between humanity and the natural world. They serve as spiritual messengers, leading seekers towards deeper understanding, spiritual growth, and the discovery of hidden truths. The reindeer's presence in Celtic myth and association with Elen of the Ways underscores the profound relationship between nature, spirituality, and the human quest for enlightenment.
In Sami cosmologies, reindeer hold deep spiritual significance as sacred creatures. They are considered as mediators between the human and spirit worlds, embodying guidance and protection. In Mongolian traditions, ancient carvings of flying reindeer depict their association with the shamanic journey, symbolizing the ability to transcend physical boundaries and access spiritual realms. The reindeer's spiritual significance in both cultures highlights their role as conduits for divine connection and their embodiment of mystical qualities.
To see the range of Reindeer Shamanic Drums that we currently have in store, please click here.
STAG
In Celtic mythology, the stag holds a revered and powerful position, embodying various symbolic meanings and associations. The stag represents strength, virility, and nobility. It is often seen as a creature of the wilderness, embodying the untamed and primal forces of nature. In particular, the stag is closely linked to Cernunnos, the Horned God of Celtic mythology. Cernunnos himself is depicted with antlers or adorned with a stag's head, signifying his affinity with this majestic creature.
As the Horned God, Cernunnos is associated with fertility, abundance, and the cycle of life. His connection to the stag symbolizes his dominion over the wild and his role as a guardian of the animal kingdom. The stag and Cernunnos are intertwined, representing the sacred masculine energy, the vitality of the natural world, and the cyclical rhythms of existence. The stag's image serves as a reminder of the deep connection between humans and the wild, and the harmonious balance between humanity and the animal realm.
To see the range of Stag Shamanic Drums that we currently have in store, please click here.
HORSE
The horse holds deep significance in Celtic mythology, symbolizing various qualities and embodying a connection between humans and the spiritual realm. Revered as a symbol of power, grace, and freedom, the horse represents journeys, both physical and spiritual. In Celtic lore, Epona is a prominent goddess associated with horses and horsemanship. She is regarded as a protector of horses, a fertility goddess, and a symbol of abundance. Rhiannon, another significant figure, is often depicted riding a white horse and is associated with sovereignty, enchantment, and the Otherworld. Macha, a goddess associated with sovereignty and war, possesses a powerful horse-like aspect, known for her incredible speed and strength.
Horses are seen as guides and companions in heroic quests and spiritual journeys. They serve as intermediaries between the mortal and divine realms, carrying individuals between worlds. In Celtic mythology, horses are revered for their wisdom and intuition, representing the profound connection between humans and the natural world. The horse's significance in Celtic mythology illustrates the intricate relationship between humans, nature, and the spiritual forces that shape their lives.
In shamanic traditions, the horse holds powerful symbolism as a spiritual ally and guide. The horse represents freedom, strength, and swift movement, enabling shamans to traverse between realms. The concept of the "wind-horse" symbolizes the energy and vitality that propels shamans on their visionary journeys. The shaman's horse is a sacred conduit, aiding in spiritual transformation and facilitating connections with the spirit world. Through its symbolic presence, the horse in shamanic traditions embodies the ability to transcend boundaries, navigate the unseen realms, and access profound wisdom and healing.
To see the range of Horse Shamanic Drums that we currently have in store, please click here.
All of the hides that we use for our Shamanic Drums are responsibly and ethically sourced, and worked with in ceremony to honour and thank the animal spirits. For more information, read our page about the Ethics of Hide Drums
Woods
What is the spiritual meaning and symbolism of the woods that we use for our Shamanic Drums?
As well as working with the animal spirits that have a traditional connection with this land in the hides that we choose for drum making, we also work with wood of trees that have a traditional connection in this land. Just as much as the hide, the trees share their particular strengths and qualities of spirit within the drum. Here are the common associations with the woods that we work with.
ASH
The Ash is a tree of healing, empowerment and enchantment. Within Norse mythology, the Ash is Yggdrasil, the World Tree, which connects us to the upper and lower worlds. By journeying with a drum made with an Ash hoop, we journey with all these powers and strengths between the worlds.
OAK
The Oak is the tree of life, strength and nobility. It is a living legend representing all that is true, wholesome, stable, and noble. There is a reason the oak is considered the king of green realm. The oak is generous with its gifts - just as any good ruler shares its bounty amongst the kingdom.
BIRCH
The Birch is the tree of new beginnings, journeying and of purification. In a number of Northern European traditions, it is associated with the world tree and the symbol of shamanic initiation, where the initiate must climb the branches of the Birch tree.
WILLOW
The Willow is a goddess tree, known as the Lady of the Waters, connecting us with our intuition and healing. Just like her branches, she teaches us gentleness and flexibility as we connect with the depths of our inner waters. Also, as a powerful healer, used in medicines herself, she is a great teacher for working with in healing.
About our shamanic drum styles
What is the difference between the various styles of Shamanic Drums?
Heron Drums works craft our Shamanic Drums in a variety of styles, each with different story and symbolism. Read the articles below to find out more about each of them.
Listen to your drum
The above are from common symbolism related to the different animals and trees and may help you to feel your way towards which is the right drum for you. However, as you connect with your drum and build your relationship with its spirit, it shares with you deeper insights, wisdom and medicine that is specifically for you.
Your sacred relationship with your drum is one of special importance, and through your journeys with your drums, you will learn a greater connection with the animal and tree spirits than can be shared in this article.
Clearer now on what is the right Shamanic Drum for you?
Order a Bespoke Shamanic Drum to your preferences or birth your own at one of our upcoming Shamanic Drum Birthing Workshops
See other featured articles on the Heron Drums Blog….
