Cedar’s journey into sound

Cedar’s journey into sound began at the age of sixteen when he started traveling around the country following the Grateful Dead. For seven years, he immersed himself in the band’s unique musical culture until the untimely passing of Jerry Garcia in 1995.

 

One of the most profound influences on Cedar was the Grateful Dead’s legendary “Drums and Space” segment, where percussionists created expansive sonic landscapes using a vast array of drums, percussion instruments, and electronic soundscapes. Drawing inspiration from musical traditions around the world, these performances took listeners on transformative and deeply immersive journeys. The experience became woven into the fabric of Cedar’s musical DNA.

 

Drum circles were an integral part of the Grateful Dead community, and Cedar naturally gravitated toward the djembe and other hand drums. What began as curiosity quickly evolved into a lifelong passion.

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Following Garcia’s passing, Cedar continued his exploration of rhythm and sound, expanding his musical influences to include acid jazz, traditional African music, Indian music, and the emerging world of electronic music. Throughout this journey, he developed a deep appreciation for the healing and transformative power of sound.

 

In more recent years, Cedar has been both a participant and facilitator in plant medicine ceremonies. The ceremonial music used in these sacred spaces incorporates many of the same instruments and traditions that inspire his work with SAMIRA. He has brought his instruments and sacred sounds into these ceremonial environments, helping participants deepen their connection to themselves, their journeys, and the wisdom that emerges through the experience.

 

While Cedar’s greatest love is the gong, his soundscape extends far beyond it. He weaves together medicine drums, rattles, shakers, animal calls, whistles, and a variety of sacred instruments chosen for their unique resonances and healing qualities. Inspired by the rhythms of nature and the vastness of the cosmos, Cedar creates immersive sonic journeys that invite deep relaxation, self-discovery, and transformation.