The History and Music Practices of Native American
Tribes with a Particular Focus on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan
Charlene
Curtis
Iron
Mountain Public Schools
Issues and
terminology: What is Native American music?
--It is a whole way of
life of a people, learned and transmitted from one generation to the next in
the oral tradition.
Historical
development:
--Trace the
history of the migration route from Canada to Michigan.
Rationale for
teaching Native American music and history:
--Native Americans
are the only indigenous peoples living in America.
In search of
approaches:
--Music needs to
have a cultural context.
--Diversity is a
valuable resource in society.
Methodology:
--It is important
to be exposed to the literature from different cultures.
--You must find
authentic recordings and instrument.
Which music to
teach:
--Attend workshops
or summer college classes in Native American studies.
--Attend powwows
and Native American Art Fairs.
Getting started:
--Check out the
web sites on Native American music.
--Get the book, Multi-cultural
Perspectives in Music Education
by Patricia Campbell and William Anderson. (Great for lesson plans and activities.)
Charlene
Curtis
Iron
Mountain Public Schools
Iron
Mountain, MI 49801