1. What is something you learned about another culture this term that surprised or intrigued you?

In one of the videos about Native American music, a Navaho musician said that the vocables used in the music of his people are the best way of communication with the divine. He said that God is too great to praise with words and so these seemly random syllables are more spiritual. I usually think of vocal music as being special because of the texts but this culture just appreciates and values the pure sound of the human voice. I like it!

2. What is something that you realized about your own culture through our discussions?

Most of the cultures we focused on used a lot of improvisation and oral tradition in their music. We don’t do that often. We rely heavily on performing the music of others. I’m not making value judgments. I think both are important. It is just interesting to observe this difference. I might try to incorporate more of my own composition and improvisation into my musical activities.

3. What is something that this course has inspired you to learn more about?

I’m interested in the varying vocal styles used in several of these cultures. Why is that flat, bright sound so beautiful in some cultures while others want a tall and round tone? Is it possible for any one person to do any two styles very well? Must a singer speak the native language to sound authentic in that style?