MUSIC OF INDIGENOUS AMERICANS
1. One of the points that I wanted to learn more about was the drums that native Americans used, specifically how they were made. So I did a little research and googled "native American drums" and found out all sorts of fascinating info on how they are made and what they were used for. For instance they believed that the drums contained the power of thunder and lightning inside and were used to connect to the heavens and have spiritual connections to the gods. Drums were an important aspect not only in there music culture but there social culture because of this. Most native American tribes that used drums have there own unique way of making one and was passed down in there tribes. (Source)
This video explains how a Hand drum traditionally was made...
2. One ceremony that I found interesting by doing research that we never mentioned is ceremonies for a sweat lodge. Sweat lodges are very sacred to native Americans and was used for rituals and ceremonies for healing. Sweat lodges are very important in the culture of indigenous people and the creating of it is no different. Usually it starts with a vision and is constructed with careful preparation guided with prayer. Whenever someone enters a sweat lodge they experience purification of mind, body, and spirit while the community offers prayers and songs. The ceremony is usually performed with a round or oval shaped drum. The round drum symbolizes the universe and the oval drum symbolizes the path of the earth. (Source)
Ethan- I thought it was so cool that you did a segment on dream catchers! I have always known the basic concept of dream catchers- to protect the individual sleeping from evil spirits and bad dreams. The information you provided gave me more information as to what the Native Americans feel the purpose of the dream catcher is- giving the individual unity and strength. Not only are dream catchers beautiful but they are a symbol of a healthy mind and spirit.
ReplyDeleteI loved the video you included about how Native American drums were made. I had never heard of a sweat lodge before I read your blog post. It was interesting to read about it and listen to the Medicine man explain it. I also really liked reading about the dreamcatchers. I have always had a dreamcatcher above my bed, so it was really cool to see how they are made.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed learning about the Native American sweat lodges. I think it's really interesting that they sweat lodges were used to purify the mid body and spirit. I know that this side comment may be off topic, but it reminds me of what my dad tells me when I'm sick. Whenever I get sick, my dad tells me to dress really warmly so that I can sweat the sickness out. I found it really fascinating that Native Americans use a similar (but more in depth) ritual to achieve spiritual purification as well. Very interesting video. Thank you so much for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI have been interested in learning how they make their drums too, so I am glad you chose this topic. I did not realize that they believe the drums have the power of thunder and lightning inside. Also, I think it is pretty interesting that they see the drums as a way to connect to the heavens and gods. I have never heard of the sweat lodges, but it is very interesting.
ReplyDeleteOne big thing I thought was super interesting was learning HOW they made their drums not just how they use them. It makes sense that they believe in the drums have monstrous powers , because in reality they can produce such a large sound . It gives these people something to have their minds grasp.
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