Introduction: Drum Circles, Music, and Other Influences

Upon hearing the phrase “Native American,” the first image that found its way into the forefront of my conscious mind was that of a drum circle. I have always had an intense appreciation for drumming; however, my interaction with it has always been that of an interested listener, rather than a skillful practitioner. So, when I experienced my first drum circle at a Native American Powwow when I was younger, I fell in love with the unified rhythmic beat and power generated by the drumming,  as well as the chanting/singing that often accompanies it. I am not sure what it is exactly, but I always feel like drumming, chanting, dancing, and things of that nature possess a deep connection to the human spirit that goes back further than any of us probably know. This is why every indigenous culture utilizes these aspects of human expression in their spiritual rituals and cultural customs. They unite us in our humanity. One does not need to be accustomed to the dance, have ever participated in a drum circle, ever chanted anything in their life, or even be a part of the culture to appreciate the music and beauty found in the artful expression of cultural tradition. For instance, I am not Native American in terms of blood, at least as far as I know, and yet I thoroughly enjoy indigenous drum circles, chanting, dancing and other types of artful expressions, like music and art in general, that indigenous peoples practice as part of their cultural heritage. 

As far as what I know, or think I know, about indigenous peoples and their cultures, It is certainly not much. I know that many Native Americans still live on reservations. But, I also know that many Native Americans live just like most other Americans. I know that some are in touch with their roots, and I know that some have lost touch; again, just like many other Americans, including myself, for I may be Irish by all appearances, but my family is so disconnected from their Irish ancestors that we no longer possess much of a cultural heritage. My earliest interactions with and learning experiences of Native American people and their cultures took place at the Powwows I would often visit as a young boy. During my teenage years, the lead vocalist of Rage Against the Machine, Zack De la Rocha, existed as my main source of Native American influence, as his lyrics related heavily to the indigenous experience living in the U.S. and exist as an indigenous response to the crimes of the U.S., as reflected in the poetic lyricism of a young Native American man. At this point, while it is still music that is the central influence on me, it is the Native American flutist R. Carlos Nakai that I listen to. I also know of Sherman Alexie; however, I am not well versed in his material. I know, from attending a presentation by Dr. Morris's class a previous semester, that Native Americans are quite funny and have a keen sense of humor, especially concerning themselves. Other than that, the only other thing I could add is the Idle No More campaign, of which I just learned about recently through a short video that I saw online. 

So, in honor of what I've spoken of, I would like to share a few things. First, I would like to share a video of a drum circle. Then, I would also like to share an adorable video of a very young boy rocking out on a hand drum. After which, I will share a song by R. Carlos Nakai. And finally, I will post the Idle No More YouTube video, which also features drumming and singing.