Alumnus Finds Beat after NSAC Education

Patrick Jarvis  (class of ’80) is one of the most creative graduates of NSAC. After completing his farm equipment tech. course, Patrick went on to work in the farm equipment industry, in a saw mill and as a logger and carpenter, among other things. However, in recent years, his career path has taken an even more interesting turn.

Patrick’s years of hard labour and repetitive work in various jobs led to a repetitive stress injury followed by addiction. Instead of allowing himself to succumb to the addiction, Patrick made the decision to get clean. His decision, coupled with amazing timing, lead to the creation of his own business and a truly unique career as a carver of ancient African drums.

“My decision to get clean and my invitation to a drum circle came on the same day. The drums spoke to me and I had a spiritual awakening,” says Patrick.

When he was 12 years old, Patrick picked up his father’s carving tools for the first time. Over the years, his skill grew, although he had not attempted carving drums before his experience with a drum circle.

“In 2004, after being introduced to the drums, I decided I wanted to start carving them. I studied and tried different methods and taught myself how to carve them.”

Today, Patrick carves several types of drum including the djembe, bougarabou, ashiko, djundjun and dondo. To the untrained, each seems almost identical. However, each drum has its own history, sound and playing technique.

The decision to carve drums was and is an easy one for Patrick. The actual act of carving them isn’t always as easy in a place like Nova Scotia though.

“The weather has a real effect on the drums. Too much humidity means re-tuning the drum repeatedly. The skins expand and contract at different rates than the wood, which can warp the sound.”

The challenges Nova Scotia weather poses haven’t stopped Patrick from building a successful business, Ancient Hermit Drums Inc., and sharing his love for the art form with others. 

“I have recently begun using drums as a means of helping troubled youth find a spiritual path toward a better outlook on life. After my first workshop, I noticed the effect the drums had on the teens and wanted to pursue the opportunity further.”

While it may be hard for some to understand the profound effect something as small as a drum can have, the elements of drumming, and music in general, are key in developing skills for a successful life.

“Drumming is a way to help the teens focus. I start by teaching them simple rhythms and then their focus, attention and interest grows. They seem to find a real spiritual connection to the drums. It is a way to connect to the spiritual aspect of every indigenous culture around the globe.”

Although Patrick has moved outside of agriculture, he has not forgotten NSAC.

“I grow my own veggies organically every year and use hides from Nova Scotia farms exclusively for the heads on the drums. My NSAC education gave me a sense of direction and I remain an Aggie at heart.”