Uses of Buffalo Drums in Native American Tribes

A gathering of Native Americans at the National Powwow.

Drums were of great importance in the cultures of many ancient peoples. The Native Americans of the Great Plains hunted buffalo and used the hides for many purposes, including the creation of drums. Each tribe of the plains had different traditions that surround the buffalo drum. The buffalo was a symbol of power, making the buffalo drums sacred tools. Used in ceremonies, spiritual festivals and tribal celebrations, buffalo drum music represented the heartbeat of the tribe. The drum created a strong tie between the tribe and the Great Creator. The modern drum is an iconic teacher for young Native American students.

Daily Lives

Drums are a part of Native American daily life. The Native Americans used drums and other musical instruments in the activities of daily living. Often the drumming had a connection with songs. Thanksgiving songs or games songs helped the tribal members to continue their activities in harmony with other members and with nature.

Powwows

The powwow was originally a spring celebration to the renewal of life. It was a way the tribe could congregate to renew friendships, dance and sing. Powwows had religious significances as a prayer to the Great Creator or spirit. Performed in a circle, the powwow is a representation of the circle of life. The drum is a communal drum that symbolizes the heartbeat of the circle.

Healing

Native American healers have used buffalo drums to heal by producing an altered state of consciousness through drumming and chanting. Different speeds of drumming within a sweat lodge along with chanting allow the individual to relax and experience a cleansing of body, mind and spirit. Using the sweat lodge, drums and chanting as a ceremonial prayer, the body is cleared of toxins and negativities.

Teacher

The drum used in the modern classroom allows the Native American students to reconnect with their proud and ancient heritage. Native American drums also provide learning for all students to learn and understand the multicultural society in which they live. By learning about the buffalo drums and the ancient way of life, students can find understanding in many of their community's shared beliefs.

References

• "Sacred Fireplace: Life and Teachings of a Lakota Medicine Man"; Pete S. Catches, Sr.; 1999
• "The Lakota Ritual of the Sweat Lodge: History and Contemporary Practice"; Raymond A. Bucko; 1998
• University of Chicago: Native American Products
• Native Net: Native American Drums
• Society for American Music: The Drum as Icon and Teacher in D/Lakota Life