Proper care helps protect your shamanic drum's hide, frame and sound. Natural-hide drums are particularly affected by moisture, heat, sunlight and changes in temperature, so correct storage and occasional maintenance can help keep the drum in good playing condition.
Regular Cleansing Rituals
In addition to physical maintenance, consider incorporating regular cleansing rituals for your drum. This can involve smudging with sage or palo santo to clear any negative energies and restore its spiritual purity.
Moisturising the Drum Surface
A shamanic drum is usually made from natural materials—its wooden frame often crafted from ash, maple, or cedar, with the drumhead made from animal hides like deer, elk, buffalo, horse, or goat skin, stretched tightly over the frame. These materials are important in shamanic practice for their spiritual connection to the earth. Over time, the animal hide can dry out, affecting tone and resonance; to prevent this, gently massage a small amount of high-quality olive or drum conditioning oil into the surface to moisturise the hide and avoid cracking.
Storage Tips
It is essential to keep your shamanic drum in a dry area and not expose it to dampness or humidity. Moisture can encourage the growth of mould, which can damage the drum's structure. Therefore, storing the drum in a cool and dry location is best so it can remain undisturbed when not in use.
Sunlight Exposure
Shamanic drums are used in ceremonies to connect with spirits through rhythms that reflect the universe’s flow. While natural light can be helpful, direct sunlight harms the drum’s hide by drying it out, causing brittleness, cracks, and loss of resonance. To protect your drum, store or display it away from direct sunlight.
Tuning and Maintenance
If your shamanic drum is tuneable, regularly tune it using a drum tuner or expert guidance to keep its tension balanced and pitch clear. Inspect it often for wear like loose lacing or frame dents and fix issues promptly to prevent damage. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, keep it shaded, and change its temperature gradually to protect the drum.
Take Your Shamanic Drumming Further
Caring for your drum helps preserve its condition, sound and playability. The Complete Shamanic Drummer eBook is our 38-page beginner guide covering playing techniques, open and closed strokes, rhythm exercises, choosing a drum and beater, care, recording and troubleshooting.
