UNIT 4: NATIVE AMERICAN MUSIC
Native American Music music that is passed down from generation to generation through oral tradition of word of mouth by Native Americans; music that has simple rhythm and strong beat
oral tradition learning by listening rather than by reading; “word of mouth”
vocables sung syllables and/or words with no literal meaning
powwow a regional celebration of multiple tribes sharing of songs, dances, crafts, and stories
kokopelli Native American spirit that represents music; brings life blessings of growth in crops; and a trickster god
lullabies quiet songs that help babies and children go to sleep, example: “Ucha Tirvarch”
song styles/classifications most of the songs have no meter but does have a strong meter the beat symbolizes the heartbeat of mother earth/nature Traditional songs: handed down from generation to generation Ceremonial & Medicine songs: been told to come to you in your dreams Modern songs: show European influences
purposes of music music was never performed for its own sake ceremonial recreational functional narrative
instruments Instruments were made from things found in nature wooden flute (Native American or Indian flute) drum (one purpose to cue the dancers) rattles shakers whistles voice