King Kevin

Extract Article and photos by Mary Lafrance, Indian Time, Akwesasne
Rattle and water drum making

Kevin King is the self taught teacher who made is first rattle two weeks before the class began. He took the class to learn to learn how to make a rattle and ended up becoming the teacher. The tools being used actually provide many short cuts to rattle making. But Mr. King believes that it’s all about experience and not the technique. “No worries about getting to the place but how we got there” said Mr. King.

The class began with 22 people who had 5 weeks to make their own rattles. The class represented a wide range of ages from 6 to 75. “You are never too old to learn something new, said Teen Wolf the oldest member of the group.

Thanks to Mr. King’s quick tools everybody made their own rattles in the first few weeks and shortly after began making their own water drums. The main materials for constructing the water drums were unusual: PVC piping and plug secured with epoxy; however, Mr. King reassured everyone again that it is about the journey and not how they got there. What many people do not realize is that in older times water drums were made of clay pots and that wood came about with the advent of wood kegs from traders. That is why today it is beneficial to use plastic because it does not smolder or split like wood.

Toward the end of every class the group is visited by Ron Lafrance and other from his singing groups and they get to use their hand made rattle and water drums to sing traditional songs.
“In the end they are looking for the sound” said Mr. King and they can be proud that they made it themselves.

By the end of the class everyone who participated will leave with their own hand made rattles and water drums decorated with their original designs thanks to their dedication to learn the skills and tools provided by Mr. King. For upcoming classes contact the Akwesasne Library and Museum at 518-358-2240.