Restoring the Hickatee Drum
SHOWCASING A GARIFUNA DRUM REstoration
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Hickatee Cottages has had the honor of owning a Garifuna drum from locally owned Warasa Drum School. This bass drum, made from yemeri wood, was first crafted in 2011 by Ronald Ray McDonald (“Ray”) and his father, Mario McDonald. The drum soon became a treasured piece of Hickatee Cottages. From that moment, our Cultural Night (previously known as Warasa Wednesdays) would begin.
On Wednesday evenings, a life of culture, fun and music has radiated from Hickatee Cottages verandah. Guests gather around to learn about the Garifuna language, culture, and beautiful renditions that Ray so eloquently performs. Ray would sit behind his primero drum (a much smaller drum) and ask guests to join in by playing on Hickatee’s bass drum. From there, Ray would drum along and sing classic Garifuna songs with perfect rhythm and beat.
Fast forward a decade, father-son McDonald team have given new life to the Hickatee Cottages Garifuna drum.
We are proud to showcase this restoration process and final masterpiece with you through a series of photos and videos below.
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Click here to read more about Punta Gorda Culture - Garifuna Drumming.
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To learn more about the Garifuna drum making process, check out Warasa Garifuna Drum School.
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Restoration Process
