Step into the timeless world of rhythm, northern storytelling, and traditional craftsmanship in this unique Drum Making Workshop. During the workshop you will create your own personal frame drum and drum beater using natural materials, while learning about the fascinating drum traditions of cultures around the world.

The frame drum is one of humanity’s oldest musical and ceremonial instruments — a bridge between people and the physical and spiritual world. In this workshop we explore this ancient tradition while creating a beautiful instrument of your own.

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During the course you will craft a traditional frame drum using reindeer hide and a wooden frame. The drum frame is made from ready-made plywood:

• round drum: 45 cm diameter

• oval drum: 28 × 40 cm

The drum beater is created from a natural tree branch and felted wool, making each beater unique.

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Although the technique used is very similar to that used for ancient ritual drums, what we create here is not a ceremonial or shaman drum. In many northern cultures, only consecrated drums are believed to hold special powers, and only a few people know how to call upon those forces. What we create is a beautiful and meaningful instrument that you can use in many ways: as a musical instrument, for relaxation and sound journeys, to accompany storytelling, to deepen meditation or to create rhythm and magical moments.

 

What happens during the workshop

In the morning session, we begin crafting the wooden frame and drum beater/mallet. You will cut the reindeer hide that will form the drum membrane and place it in the clear lake water of to soak and soften.

After the morning work, we take a relaxed break while the hide soaks. During this time, we will have lunch — a warm vegetarian soup — spend time in the surrounding nature.

In the afternoon, we stretch the softened hide over the frame and tighten it carefully using leather cords. The drum is then left to dry naturally. Even though you won’t hear the sound of your own drum just yet, the workshop ends with a drum journey by the fire.

By the next day, the hide will have tightened into its final shape — and you will be able to hear the voice of your own handmade drum for the first time.

Throughout the workshop you will also hear stories about drums: their history, their meanings, and their role in the cultures of northern peoples.

 

A personal and creative experience

No prior experience is needed — only a willingness to work with your hands and heart. This workshop is not only about making an instrument — it is about slowing down, working with natural materials, and connecting with rhythm, stories, and northern traditions.

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Group size: 2-8. Please note that the minimum number of participants is 2 persons. If there are not enough registrations one week before the event, the workshop will be cancelled.

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Private drum workshops for small groups are also available on request.

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This experience is crafted by MyTrail Finland +358 505606633 guide@mytrail.fi www.mytrail.fi