The first drum that was used was actually the human body. Keeping rhythm by patting the thigh or beating on the chest or even by clapping or snapping the fingers created sound that resonated deep into the physical being but also brought the person completely into the NOW and unified the consciousness with Spirit. Over time hollow objects began being discovered as excellent sound inducers. Then came the hides from animals that the ancients killed in order to eat and live. Those hides provided clothing and shelter and later were stretched over the hollow tree stump to create a drum. It is interesting that absolutely every culture around the world has drums. They vary in size and design, but they are there and used to make music but also to create energy for sacred ceremony.
The sound of the drum has recently been discovered to resonate at nearly the same frequency as that of the Earth herself. This is why they are so grounding and why they can lull us into trance so easily. And once in that trance, we are able to journey to many other dimensions of reality. That is what shamanic journeying is all about. As we travel to the different dimensions of reality, we are able to glean knowledge, wisdom and medicine that we can then bring back to help ourselves and others to heal. 
With the base beat of a drum, we are then able to create other sounds that weave their way through the sound medicine, be those the sounds of clicking sticks, voice in song or chant, or simply the sound of breath. It all works together to create a masterpiece of sound vibration and healing. This is why drum circles tend to become so popular. As people gather together and create sound together, the energy of the group is heightened to a level of complete oneness.
The drum, like the Witch Bell, can also be used to call in Spirit and to commune with said Spirit. After all, if we are journeying to various dimensions, who is to say that those dimensions cannot also journey to us? It happens and when it does it is spectacular!
I encourage you, the reader, even if you are not a “magical practitioner,” to try out a drum, be it hand-held hoop drum or djembe drum, and let yourself be carried away by the deep, resonant vibration it makes. I also encourage you to try out drum circle experiences. You just might find a circle that fits with your spiritual needs.
*Note: I do lead monthly ceremonies, some of which incorporate drum circle activities. If you would like more information on these gatherings, please see my Workshops/Events page.