MUSIC, CELEBRATIONS & CEREMONIES

THE IROQUOIS   Barbara Graymont           Chelsea House Publishers
New York Philadelphia 1988

“For the Iroquois, as for tribal people generally, religion was an inseparable part of daily life. Spiritual powers were everywhere in the natural world, and people always sought to keep in the right relationship to them. The Iroquois were grateful to the Creator and the benevolent supernaturals for their help. Knowledge of how to perform the proper rituals and ward off evil forces was essential. In every season of the year, great ceremonies were held to give thanks for the bounties of nature. These occasions unified the community in a common purpose and way of life.”

1990 TEACHER CREATED MATERIALS, INC.             #285 THEMATIC UNIT
NATIVE AMERICAN

“Music plays an important part in the life of the Native American. From the time he is born until he dies, his life is marked by dancing and ceremony. The drum provides the rhythm and is often joined by rattles and rasps to furnish background for the chants and dances accompanying tribal ceremonies.”

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Courtesy of the Warren County Historical Society