Our Northern European line of drums for those who really care about the sound and feel of their sacred instrument. These drums have had been "smoked and stroked" through special techniques of construction, setting the head, and drying, developed by a master drum maker and an experienced jazz/rock percussionist. Together, we make instruments that have balance, harmonics and tone, that are more comfortable to hold and to play, and that are in integrity with the animals and plants who have given their lives so that these drums may live.

These drums are constructed on cedar hoops with wooden pegs. The handle is a suspended piece of wood or antler ($25 extra), smooth to the touch and tied into the hoop with rawhide. Because the handle is not directly attached to the head of the drum, these drums are highly resonant.

While our drums are drying, we smudge them frequently with sage, sweetgrass, amber & other sacred herbs. This not only keeps the energy pure and beautiful, it lays down a layer of smoke that helps the drums be more resilient to weather and temperature changes (of course, all hide drums are going to have some variations). We also talk to them and smooth the sides as they dry. When the drums come to life, they just sound and feel wonderful!

These drums are made in the style of Celtic bodhrans.

The thin horse, deer or goat head is attached with wooden pegs (instead of the tacks commonly used on traditional bodhrans), and the wooden cross handle is dowelled into place in a commercial maple rim (depth 3 1/2” to 4”). Because no metal or artificial substances are used in the construction of these drums, they are excellent for working with the fair folk or other sensitive beings.

These drums come with a wooden tipper. If you would prefer a standard beater, please let us know.