This content was published: September 4, 2003. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Construct your own Native American drum with PCC
Photos and story by James Hill
PORTLAND, Ore. – Since ancient times, the drum has played an integral part in Native American culture, tradition and musical expression. Now you can recreate this powerful instrument for yourself with an upcoming Portland Community College class.Drum Making: Native American Style, a non-credit class, will teach you how to construct a traditional drum using rawhide and cedar hoops. Instructor Bob McCoy will demonstrate how to choose the right natural materials, prepare them, and adjust their tension to produce particular sounds. Students will take home a completed drum, made and designed themselves."Music and art really come together in drum making,"said McCoy. "The drum is your own creation, fusing your music with a special piece of your personality."The three-week class will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 30 through Oct. 14, in the Wood Shop Room of Wilson High School, 1151 S.W. Vermont St. Cost is $40.50.For more information, contact PCC Community Education at 503-731-6622.
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »