Guillermo Martinez is a traditional drum maker and flute maker. In ancient times he would have been called a "Tolteca" which is a specialized craftsman. His specialty is musical instruments. He is a descendent of the Tarascan Indians of the highlands of Michoacan, Mexico. Guillermo made a drum for Wishtoyo Foundation, and he shared with us what making the drum entails.

These big drums first have their start in Taos, New Mexico with extended family members he knows there. They harvest big cottonwood trees every year to make the traditional drums Taos is famous for. The log is hollowed out according to Guillermo's' specifications, then send it to him. When he orders the log, he begins locating hides. He prefers buffalo, likes elk and sometimes uses cowhides on the drums.

The hide is very important. It must match the log as well as the use of the drum and for whom it is being made. At least half a day, undisturbed, is necessary to build it. The day begins with prayers and tobacco offerings to the tree people, the four-leggeds and also the four directions. Everything must be smudged and purified because the drum is the voice of Earth Mother and it must be pure and good. As the drum is being made, only good thoughts and good words are used. When the drum is together, it is blessed and set aside in a cool, dry place for four days, undisturbed. After the fourth day it can be awakened. Everybody will hear its voice! "I was chosen to this and to do it well", Guillermo said.

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