Native American Dance: Ceremonies and Social Traditions - Softcover

National Museum Of The American Indian (U. S.)

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1563730219 ISBN 13: 9781563730214

Publisher: Starwood Pub, 1993

Synopsis

The enthralling scope of Native American dance - from the Fancy dancers of the powwow circuit and the traditional keepers of sacred Indian ceremonies to the comtemporary flourishes of modern Indian choreographers - is explored in this enlightening collection of essays by leading native and non-native scholars and practitioners of dance in the Indian community. Perhaps the most indigenous of American art forms, native dance has a rich history stretching back to prehistoric times. Most often religious in nature, and inseparable from accompanying music, Native American dance has not only served to keep native cultures alive and thriving, but to promote intertribal communication as well. A gathering of prominent voices, all marked by their passion for the dance, along with a wealth of illustrations (including nearly 200 in full color), gives this book a creative spirit grounded in authoritative scholarship. The premier publication of the Smithsonian Institution's new National Museum of the American Indian, Native American Dance promises to be the landmark book on the subject for many years to come.

About this title

From Library Journal:

This collection of essays on Native American dance traditions and their meaning, origin, and evolution is the first book from the Smithsonian Institution's newest museum. The pieces cover a variety of tribal groups, including Apache, Pueblo, Alaskan, Zapotec, and Northern and Southern Plains. The continuing importance of dance in contemporary Native American life is emphasized, and a clear distinction drawn between social and ceremonial dancing. Many of the authors are of Native American ancestry. This National Geographic style overview, well designed with excellent illustrations, is recommended for the casual reader or elementary/secondary student.
- Gwen Gregory, U.S. Courts Lib., Phoenix
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Starwood Pub
• Publication date: 1993
• ISBN 10: 1563730219
• ISBN 13: 9781563730214
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 196
• Editor: Heth Charlotte