Hand Drums, Skin Drums, and Philippine Crafts: John Paul Hernandez

“Seemed to me that drumming was the best way to get close to God.” – Lionel Hampton

Music and crafts can both be universal in appeal although both may also take on a very personal meaning for each individual. The kind of fashion and music that each person enjoys stems from the individual’s tastes, experiences, and lifestyle.

John Paul Hernandez’s Products and Services:

Mr. Hernandez makes percussion instruments and is also into beadwork and bamboo crafts. He sells accessories, drums, and likewise offers services such as: drum tuning, reskin of old drums, drum repair and restoration.

How the Business Started:

He started his business 3 years ago. He was inspired to make his own drums after he met a musician who had an African djembe. He then researched on materials that he could use to make his own drums. In the process of doing his research, he came across interesting things about Filipino culture like: beadwork, our native instruments, our history, and rituals. He now makes drums with features similar to an African drum, but with a Filipino touch.

What Makes His Products and Services Different?

Drum on mat Mr. Hernandez aims to serve musicians and individuals with an interest in music and/or fashion. Musicians typically have a need for his services of restoration, tuning, and reskin of old drums which he states music stores do not typically offer. For accessories, on the other hand, big companies also usually mass produce these items so there is hardly any personal touch to the products that they offer. Mr. Hernandez directly handles all job requests himself, assuring clients of his “personal” touch.