Top Four Indian Drum Songs

Indian drums can make a beautiful addition to your southwest decor, but within the Native American culture the hand drum has its own very special position. Whenever any powwow takes place, which is a traditional council or meeting, the drum takes center stage and is usually surrounded by the best singers and dancers for the event's entertainment.

Authentic native drums are great additions to southwest decor and make a distinctive accessory for any rustic log home, lodge, ranch or cabin. As many are made from natural cedar and cowhide with intricate lacing, they can also become a great conversational piece at your home.

Native American Indian drums appear at all the important social and cultural events and the best drummers and performers travel a circuit around the country, engaging different cultures and introducing different styles and repertoires nationwide. The best drummers and singers are in high demand as committee organizers set up their next powwow.

While there are many thousands of songs that have been composed for various occasions and have been handed down through the years, it is sometimes difficult for an outsider or a newcomer to appreciate the subtle differences. However, certain songs are reserved for specific occasions and designed to highlight a particular event. The top four Indian drum songs are heard during flag ceremonies, contests, veteran celebrations and when quitting or rounding off the festivities.

It's a little-known fact that there may be as many as eight people to a drum during entertainment. Men are expected to actually strike the drum and ladies to sit behind and sing. It is important that songs are not repeated during the performance, ensuring that the artists have a large repertoire.

Flag songs celebrate the tribe and it is expected that all those present stand and be silent as this most important Indian drum song is performed. The flag must be given proper respect. Native American culture is steeped in tradition and it is expected that all who attend a powwow or celebration accept this. Just as the flag song is an important part of the repertoire for native American Indian drummers, the veteran's songs must also garner everyone's respect. Songs have been written and performed for veterans who have served in all major combat arenas and everyone must stand to show their appreciation.

One of the most popular drum song events at Native American Indian gatherings is a contest, which is designed to test skill and is often judged to determine a winner. To encourage participation, inter-tribal dance songs are performed periodically. The quitting song is the last to be played and no one should attempt to leave before it is complete, as this is considered to be bad form.

Native American Indian drums make excellent items if you are decorating your home with Southwest decor. Should you be a student of music you may also find them fascinating as part of our country's rich heritage.