Printed from the MusicK8.com Idea Bank

Cultural Integrity Of Songs

Submitted by Judith Cook Tucker, Publisher
World Music Press (ASCAP), Danbury, Connecticut

Idea posted 2003-06-24

With many cultures there is a sensitivity about having had their customs stolen from them in the past, hence not wanting others to sing their music. In most cases, but not all, recreational songs (non-religious, non-sacred) such as social dance songs and children's songs, even work songs if they exist, are fine to share, but of course, it is always respectful to inquire of someone from the culture whether there might be a problem.

Among most of the peoples of the southwest, these types of songs are shared without a problem, and even will be sung during pow-wows or intertribal gatherings in more than one language, including English.

When in doubt, ask. If you can't ask, don't use! Collections such as Moving Within the Circle, compiled by Bryan Burton, offer songs contributed by members of various Indian nations for the specific purpose of sharing with music educators and their students. (Available through Plank Road Publishing at MusicK8.com and elsewhere. Click here to view Moving Within The Circle.)