Burnurwurbskek Singers: Keepers of the Penobscot drum

An inspiring evening of drumming, dancing, singing, and learning with a dynamic Wabanaki musical group.

Comprised of men representing many of Maine’s Wabanaki people (including the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Maliseet, and Mic Mac tribes), the members of the Burnurwurbskek Singers have been singing and drumming together for almost 25 years. They perform traditional northeast Native American woodland songs that date back to time immemorial, as well as more contemporary, intertribal songs. These songs have been passed down in their rich oral tradition from generation to generation—from fathers, grandfathers, and uncles to brothers, cousins, and sons. The Burnurwurbskek Singers have performed at many national events for Native American organizations and at smaller regional gatherings up and down the East Coast and Canada. Core members of the group are Ron Bear, his two sons Nick Bear and Cree Neptune Bear, and Nyle Sockbeson. The group is also often accompanied by traditional Native American dances, performed by Ron’s daughter Selena Neptune Bear and others. The Burnurwurbskek Singers are honored to continue to share their Native American drumming, singing, and dances with Indian Country and others.