The People of Cedar Mountain Drums

Our intention is a functional extended family and community. Through classes, drum circles and other offerings, our community is growing. To create with the hands awakens and empowers the heart. I learned from fellow craftspeople the spirituality of creation – that I give thanks to the spirits of the wood, the animal and the drum, rattle, talking stick and to only make these when my energy is clear. It isn’t just our products, rather the process of how they are made that I teach. Our main craftspeople are Michelle, Mandi, Dave, Joanna and Patrick. Our artists take our drums and create beautiful artwork, so you have the best functional healing tool that you will be proud to display. Other friends also help out when asked, and all are taught the ways of creating our products with loving intention and respect.

Patrick Pinson is the founder. Cedar Mountain was created following a Vision Quest by Patrick, who had made drums as a hobby for two years. Patrick had previously been a Gestalt Therapist, stockbroker, fund raising consultant and play therapist. He has published many articles on drumming as an alternative to drugs and alcohol to achieve high states, and has led drumming circles for corporations such as Nike, The Design Management Institute, prisons, churches and rehabilitation houses. Patrick leads weekly drumming circles here at our home. Patrick also leads circles for men, personal growth groups, and travels doing shows and drummaking workshops across the world.

Jasmine Rose Pinson at Bear Creek, 2008

Peter Larkin - helping clear the way for our tipi at the Bear Creek property. Peter builds and repairs hand drums for Cedar Mountain Drums.

Michelle ("Labrys") is the resident Computer Goddess and all around helper. She can be found in the retail store, working on the website, or making drums, rattles and other sacred objects. Her journey to Cedar Mountain has included a lifetime of study of the common threads found in the wisdom and mythology of many indigenous cultures, including that of the Old Religion in Europe. She seeks to always walk in balance and to follow her heart in all that she does.

Traveling/walking along her pathway in life, following her heart/vision and guided by Spirit, led Mandi to Portland and Cedar Mountain Drums in 2007. She says, "I am so grateful for the opportunity to contribute towards creating some of the many traditional instruments/implements used to aid healing and well being here at CMD. My hands are my tools ... The inspiration and guidance I receive are through prayer connecting me with Spirit which gives me great joy and passion. I am Nanny for Jasmine (Patrick's 5 year old daughter). Being with children is another of my great joys... I am living my dream. Namaste."

Dave Barron (Coyote Dave) transplanted himself from the East Coast to Portland, discovering after only one day that Portland is his home. He found Cedar Mountain Drums while seeking health, joy and music, and you are likely to find him randomly out spreading all three. Dave lives organically, from his richly composted garden to his growing involvement in building and playing drums. He makes our Cedar rims, as well as beautiful drums and other rhythm instruments.