Native American Powwow Music

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SOUND: describe what we can hear in this music
Timbre
What is the overall texture? (Voice, small ensemble, large ensemble, etc.)

In Native American powwow music there are often a variety of individuals and voices being presented. The majority of the time, the individuals perform in large ensembles, which includes voices and instruments. In some performances, there are small ensembles, who only play the drum. Normally, singing and dancing accompany the drum, but this is not always the case.

What words best describe the timbre of the voice (if vocal music)? (rough/smooth; nasal; bright; vibrato, etc.)

The voices of the ensemble range from high to low. In general, the songs typically begin at the highest note and continuously descend, ending …show more content…
(e.g., concert stage, nightclub, church, outdoors)

Powwows were originally performed as a war dance on the tribe’s reservation. Now, most powwows are performed in convention centers. Powwows are large gatherings among many tribes, in order to retain cultural heritage.

Are there any specific activities associated with this music?
(e.g., dance, drama, work, worship, weddings, funerals)

Powwows are forms of celebration. In the past, each tribe was traditionally separated powwows, but now all the tribes come together to help spread their cultural traditions. Powwows are ultimately a traditional event.

What relationships exist between this music and other domains of culture?
(economics, politics, social structure, religion, rituals, sports, etc.)

Powwows are a ritual dance/performance. In the past, they were to prepare for war and bring safety over their tribe. But now, powwows are still a ritual dance for the preservation of their beliefs.

Is notation being used or is music played from memory?

Music is played from memory. Each tribe passes down/ attempt to pass down their songs and dances to their children (“Life on the Rez: Powwow Performance"). Many young individuals want to be separated from their Native American …show more content…
The music is specified under Powwow. Powwow is the music genre, but it is ultimately much more. Powwow is a style many individuals choose to live by. It brings out elements of traditions, but also incorporates new ideas and beliefs.

What makes this music powerful, effective, or beautiful for the people who make it?

The powwow is powerful because it brings elements of the past, but also incorporates new ideas. It is also powerful because it is a reminder of the individual’s ancestors. Many individuals who perform/watch powwows want to pass the tradition on to their children because it has left an impact on their lives (“Life on the Rez: Powwow Performance”).

What does music mean? What does it reference? What does it communicate?

This music doesn't necessarily mean anything when you are hearing the vocables and watching the dances, but after hearing the stories that Native American individuals share, is the most meaningful. The powwows reference tradition and past events. But powwows communicate pride and love for the Native American lifestyle.

Does the music or the instruments used have any symbolic
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