How to Choose Your Drum

Choosing your drum isn’t just about size — it’s about relationship. Here are some ways to sense which one might be right for you:

1. Listen with Your Body, Not Just Your Ears,

When you hear a drum, notice where you feel it:  

  • If you feel it in your head or upper chest, a smaller drum (14–16") might match your natural vibration.
  • If you feel it in your heart or belly, an 18–20" might be your drum.
  • If you feel it in your hips, legs, or the ground, a 22–28" may be your calling.

Your body tells you what frequency you need.

2. Consider Your Intention:

Ask yourself:  

  • Do I want a personal journey drum? → 14–16"
  • A ceremonial or healing drum? → 18–24"
  • A community or sacred space drum? → 24–28"

The larger the drum, the more it works on the space rather than just on you.

3. Think About Practicality

  • Smaller drums (14–18") are great for travel, very long playing sessions, or walking ceremonies.
  • Larger drums (20–28") may not be comfortable standing for long periods. They may be more comfortable be played seated.

Remember that buffalo hide adds weight and depth to the sound even more than deer or elk – Goat is much lighter but will be less robust and not sound as deep and grounded.
If you’ll play often or for long sessions, test how your arm feels holding the frame — fatigue can interrupt the flow.

4. Let the Drum Choose You.

You are welcome to make an appointment to personally chose your drum at the Haybarn
or see us at various shows during the year.

In traditional ways, you don’t always choose a drum — the drum chooses you.

When you hear the right one, it seems to “speak your name.” We hope that our videos and sound clips with help you in this process. You might feel a warmth in your chest, a tingle in your hands, or tears rise unexpectedly.

That’s how you know.

How to Choose for Your Body:

  • If you have shoulder or wrist sensitivity: Stay 14"–18".
  • If you like to move, walk, or dance with your drum: 16-18”
  • If you prefer sitting or standing still in ceremony: 20"–28".
  • If you lead groups or hold sound baths: 20"–24" or bigger.
  • If you want a deep, immersive earth sound but still some comfort: 18"–20" is the golden zone.

Final Thought

A drum that’s too heavy or awkward to hold will disconnect you from its spirit — your arm will tire before your heart can open.

A drum that’s too light for your energy may feel like it can’t hold your song.
So when choosing size, don’t just think of sound — think of comfort, presence, and sustainability.

When you can hold a drum long enough for your heartbeat and its heartbeat to sync — that’s your drum.