Friends of Tijeras Pueblo

On Saturday June 14, 2008, we again had the privilege of learning the traditional technique used by Cochiti Pueblo for making drums. Our instructor was the well-known Cochiti Drum maker Gabe "Yellowbird" Trujillo. Mr. Trujillo demonstrated the entire process of creating a Cochiti drum, and then assisted each of us in creating our own drum. We spent most of the day working on our individual drums, and then on making the accompanying drumsticks or "beaters." This is the second time we have had this workshop here at the Sandia Ranger Station, and I think it went even better than our first lessons in 2006.  Gabe and I worked to streamline the drum construction process, providing more advanced preparation of the construction materials.  I think this worked out well and the 12 participants were able to make their drums in a shorter time perieod.  It also left more time for Gabe to interact with the participants and not to be as rushed.  It was a successful day for all.  For the fee of $30.00, this was both a great deal and an awesome event. As participants we have been entrusted with a traditional knowledge found nowhere else.

A Word from Gabriel "Yellowbird" Trujillo

"Each one of us is unique.  No one knows what special gift he or she will inherit from our traditional way of living and thinking."

I am a Cochiti drum-maker. Cochiti Pueblo is known as the best drum making pueblo.  The drums I make are long and upright and are symbolic interpretations of a universe.  This means that all the materials used and how they are used have special meanings.  For example, the leather string holding the top and bottom hides together is symbolic of people holding hands, holding the world together.

Togetherness is important for us as a communal people.  The top trim of the drum is usually painted white to depict the clouds,  Blue paint is used to represent water from the sea, the ocean, and the rivers.  The remaining body of the drum is painted brown to indicate the Earth.  The top and bottom hides of the drum are black to signify darkness and the little round dot in the center is suggestive of the light given by the moon or sun.  The sound made by resonating the drum is supposed to be representative of people's voices, laughing or crying in unison.  The sound of each drum is unique and beautiful if created with patience and love.

All the people of the world have their own special drums.  They have their own unique way of creating drums, and using the vibrations to enhance and share life.  Therefore, many different types of drums are created.  To name a few, we have the snare drum, the flat pow-wow drums, the riding drums, and the lullaby drums. 

Are you interested in purchasing one of Gabe "Yellowbird" Trujillo's wonderful drums?  Or perhaps you would like to find out if he is available to speak at your special function?  If you would like to contact him, write him or call him at: