South Pacific drums are traditionally made of native woods.
South Pacific drums are called "to'ere" in many countries. They are traditionally constructed from a hollow stump and called slit drums. This is because of the carved slit that creates different tones depending on the type of wood used, the overall dimensions of the drum and the design of the carving.The to'ere is played with wooden beaters or with the hands. Some cultures play various drums, with different size slits, together to create tonal contrasts.
Instructions
1. Find some traditional Polynesian wood. Kamani, milo (miro in Tahiti) or tou are the preferred woods for to'ere construction. Builders are partial to milo for its tone and carving qualities.
2. Choose a piece of wood with a 4- to 8-inch diameter and 4 to 6 feet long. The larger trees will give you the deeper bass tones. Softer wood also creates different tones than hard woods and weighs less for transporting.
3. Take the bark off of the tree trunk with a draw knife.
4. Carve a slit in one wall of your hollow log. The size and length of your slit will develop the drums voice. Make your slit have an inner angle shaped like a fan.
5. Define and flatten the top of the drum with the draw knife.
6. Dry the drum for 6 months.
7. Sand your to'ere with successively finer sandpaper. Starting with 40 grit paper and work to 240 grit.
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