The Huehuetl, pronounced “way-way,” drum is an ancient Aztec percussion instrument carved from a whole tree trunk and bound with animal skin. The word “Huehuetl” in the Aztec language Nahuatl directly translates to “old.” According to story teller Michael Heralda, “hue” really means “respect,” so “Huehuetl” means something that should be given the highest respect. Heralda added that in other cultures, the drum is called a “grandfather drum.” The drum and it’s accompanying drum were both carved from tree trunks by Agustin Rodiles and depict two winged serpent going the opposite direction to represent the duality of nature.
Natasha Brennan 