How to Keep Native American Music Alive

Native Americans have a strong history that is interwoven with music. There is archaeological evidence of this that dates back to 10,000 BC, including instruments made of turtle shells that were used by Native Americans to create rhythms. Rattles, copper bells, footed drums and clay whistles have also been discovered. The traditional music is mostly an oral tradition — it is passed down from one generation to the next at social occasions. The music is used as a way of honoring our ancestors through ceremony and if we do not continue to pass on these traditions, they could be lost. 

True American music 

Despite the fact that Native American music is the first true American genre of music, it is not getting the recognition it deserves. Native American music is getting overlooked in favor of blues and jazz, mostly from the deep south. Culturally, Native American music is in a ghetto, segregated away from mainstream society. The North American Music Awards try and push the music into the limelight, but still it would never be recognized by the majority of Americans. The only way to keep Native American Music alive is to pass it onto the next generation. 

Introducing melodic instruments to children 

Traditional instruments varied greatly for different tribes of Native Americans throughout history, but since indigenous people have forged a more common identity in modern America, pan-Indian music has emerged, which uses a wide variety of melodic instruments. Many of the instruments that are used now, are extremely versatile for a range of styles. For young children, giving them an acoustic guitar is a good place to start. Acoustic guitars can be bought in ½ or ¾ size, which are ideal for little fingers. They can be used as both a melodic or percussive instrument, as well as being good for accompanying traditional songs. Many Native American groups like The Wake Singers use acoustic guitars to play music both modern and traditional.

Passing on the songs

Most Native American songs are not written down, so the only way of passing on these songs to the next generation is simply to sing them. If your music is not being sung often at ceremonies and celebrations, then make a point of getting together with the community once a month and keeping the traditional music alive. Many Native American songs have “vocables,” musical sounds that replace the words of a song, so that it can be sung by many different tribes. Although some Native American music can have complex harmonies, there are also many simple melodies, particularly Klamath and Modoc songs, which are based on simple, repeated phrases. The music is easy to learn, which is why it is good for children to learn from a young age. 

Native American traditional music has a long and interesting history that has brought together tribes. It is important that the music is passed on to the next generation so that it is never forgotten. 

By Kylee Carter