Native American youth in the 21st Century listen to a wide variety of musical genres, ranging from rap to country. How is this music radically different from traditional Native American music? Do you think that traditional Native American music will survive into the 22nd Century? Why or why not?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Traditional music is monophonic (no harmony), is often sung by large groups of people simultaneously, and is accompanied by a steady drum beat. It is not notated, and is passed from one generation to the next via oral tradition. Current popular music almost always includes harmony and often utilizes electronic instruments. Popular music is frequently performed by a solo voice with backup singers. It is frequently notated.

In terms of function, traditional Native American music has utilitarian functions, and is frequently connected to spirituality. Current popular music is usually conceived of as entertainment, and often has little connection to spirituality.

In terms of the long-term survival of traditional music, unless this music is recorded, its survival is dependent on the continuance of the oral tradition of transmission. As with any indigenous culture, this method can be extremely effective over centuries, but can break down at any time if one generation fails to carry on tradition.