Sounding Resistance in Indian Country

Sounding Resistance in Indian Country
Throughout Turtle Island (present-day North America), songs have been an essential form of Indigenous expression for millennia. In fact, most activities in Native communities, from the gathering of traditional foods to social gatherings, are accompanied by songs. Despite the efforts of missionaries and government agencies to eradicate all forms of Indigenous expression, including language, ceremonies, and songs, Indigenous cultural traditions persisted and Native American music, rather than retreating into relative obscurity, became a critical conduit for resistance in the post-European contact era.

Focusing on contemporary Native American music from the late-twentieth century to the present, this course will examine how it has fueled resistance to the ongoing colonial project. We will also focus on innovative and groundbreaking Native performers, composers, and musicians who have influenced multiple musical genres, from rock to jazz. While Sounding Resistance is firmly rooted in concepts and ideas that are inherently musical, course content will include material from the fields of Native American/Indigenous studies and ethnomusicology, providing a broader perspective on concepts such as resistance, resilience, and self-determination. In addition, Sounding Resistance will include visiting artists who are actively making music and performing throughout the present-day US.

Sounding Resistance in Indian Country will be a co-convened course between the Institute of American Indian Arts and California Institute of the Arts.