Indian Music
What do you visualize when you think of Indian music? For many of us the vision of a campfire with people dancing around it drums beating rhythmically comes to mind.
Indian music has been in existence since the first tribes came to be. Not only is Indian music a source of enjoyment and entertainment for Native Americans it also holds a sacred and mystical place in their hearts.
As with all groups of people environment and condition help to determine what type of music will be played.
Initially Native American music came from instruments made out of various animal skins and bones. This was a way of using the entire animal and also showing the animal thanks and respect for its sacrifice to the tribe.
Native Americans are very spiritual and have a very strong connection to nature and the mother earth. This spirituality transfers over the Indian music. During many ceremonies music is played as a way to focus ones energy and spirituality on the ceremony itself.
As technology has progressed the Native Americans started to also change with it. Today you can find Native Americans playing both traditional Indian music and some of today’s popular music on newer instruments such as the guitar. Additionally younger Native Americans are using cd players and ipods to listen to their favorite Indian music and today’s popular songs.
There is concern among Native Americans that part of their culture is being lost. This is especially true for traditional ceremonies, which consist of dance and music. There has been a concerted effort by many Native American tribes to document their history and traditions. This is being done in an effort to not only educate their children but to also educate people outside the tribe.
Native Americans are justifiably very proud of their heritage and traditions and Indian music is a huge part of both.
Next time you are in a music store pick up some Native American Indian music. You will like the rhythmic beat of the music, and you will also learn more about the Native American culture.
Joseph Paige © 2006
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