The Big Drum Dance is one of the most significant musical rituals on the island of Carriacou in the Grenadines. Really a long series of dances, the Big Drum Dance is prepared for special festivals such as marriage ceremonies, tombstone raisings, fishing boat launchings and in the case of ill-health or ill-fortune. In each occasion, the main focus is twofold: remembering lineage and respecting ancestors. The music consists of singing and chanting typically joined by three drums, shakers and maracas.