write a 7-page (double-spaced, standard tabs) research paper about a musical culture NOT covered in this course. Areas covered in this course include India, Indonesia, Japan, Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, so you can choose any part of the world OTHER than these. Some areas to consider are: Native America, Polynesia, Australia, China, Korea, Ireland, Portugal, Greece, Arctic Circle…. wherever, as long as it's not covered in our course.
For this assignment, please use Nettl's 3-part model, addressed in "Unit 1: Introduction" and Chapter 1 in our textbook. Focus on the Sounds, Behaviors and Ideas or Conceptions that govern the sounds and behaviors of the musical genre/activity you choose. It's best if you stick to a specific genre or ensemble from whatever region you choose for this research paper. For example, if you wanted to write about music from Spain, don't try to summarize all Spanish music (too broad, too big) but pick a specific genre or activity to focus on, such as Flamenco. Want to research Hawaiian music? Stick to hula or string bands. The point is, focus on one genre or activity from a region and give in-depth details, not just a broad, surface cultural overview.
Sound:
What sounds are you hearing? Talk about the instruments (and voices) of the musical genre/activity. What are they made of and what do they sound like? Are there any rules or restrictions surrounding these instruments, like who can play or when one can play? Can you comment on the texture and form of the music? Texture refers to layers of activity. How many musicians are present and how do they relate to one another? Form refers to how the music is organized and presented,. How long does a performance last and how are the melodies and rhythms arranged. Lastly, what does the music sound like to you, the outsider?
Behaviors:
What activities are associated with this musical genre/activity? What are people doing while this musical activity is happening? Is there a specific purpose or function surrounding this music, or is it just for enjoyment/entertainment? Does this musical activity have any behavioral restrictions regarding religion, age or gender? Is everyone participating communally or are the musicians/singers/dancers presenting music to an audience…. why? Lastly, can you draw any connections to musical behaviors in your life or culture?
Ideas/Conceptions:
What ideas or conceptions govern the sounds and behaviors of your chosen musical genre/activity? Why are people creating this music and why are people participating? Address ideas surrounding history, culture and musical evolution. Most musical genres throughout the world express indigenous and foreign, or outsider aspects. What traits are uniquely regional, or indigenous, and what traits are coming from an outside influence and why? Again, almost all music has a combination of both! How have politics, religion or human migration affected this musical genre/activity? Lastly, can you relate what you learned to your own life experiences?
Research Paper: Exploring the Music of Polynesia
Introduction
Polynesia, a region comprising over a thousand islands scattered across the central and southern Pacific Ocean, is home to a rich and diverse musical culture that reflects the unique heritage and traditions of its indigenous peoples. In this research paper, we will delve into a specific genre of Polynesian music – the traditional Maori music of New Zealand. Through Nettl's 3-part model, we will explore the sounds, behaviors, and ideas that govern this musical genre, shedding light on its instruments, activities, and cultural significance.
Sound
The sounds of traditional Maori music are deeply rooted in nature and spirituality, reflecting the close connection that the Maori people have with their environment. Instruments such as the pūtātara (conch shell trumpet), pahu (drum), and pūrerehua (bullroarer) are commonly used in Maori music, creating a distinctive blend of rhythmic beats and haunting melodies. The voices of singers often mimic the sounds of birds and other natural elements, adding a layer of symbolism to the music.
In Maori music, there are often rules and protocols surrounding the use of instruments, particularly in ceremonial contexts. For example, the pūtātara is considered a sacred instrument, reserved for significant rituals and events. The texture of Maori music is characterized by a communal approach, with multiple musicians and singers coming together to create harmonious and rhythmic soundscapes. Performances can vary in length, ranging from short ceremonial pieces to elaborate song cycles that recount ancestral stories.
As an outsider, Maori music may sound primal yet deeply spiritual, evoking a sense of connection to nature and ancestral traditions. The rhythmic patterns and melodic structures transport listeners to a world where music serves as a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms.
Behaviors
The activities associated with traditional Maori music are often intertwined with cultural rituals and social gatherings. During musical performances, individuals engage in various forms of expression, including singing, dancing, and storytelling. The music serves multiple purposes, from celebrating important life events to invoking spiritual blessings and honoring ancestors.
Behavioral restrictions in Maori music may be influenced by age, gender, and social hierarchy within the community. Certain songs or dances may be reserved for specific age groups or genders, reflecting the hierarchical structure of Maori society. While music can be enjoyed for entertainment purposes, its deeper significance lies in preserving cultural heritage and fostering a sense of community among the Maori people.
In Maori musical traditions, participants often engage in communal activities where everyone has a role to play. Whether it is through singing traditional chants or performing intricate dance movements, individuals come together to create a cohesive musical experience that transcends individual expression.
Ideas/Conceptions
The sounds and behaviors of traditional Maori music are governed by profound ideas and conceptions rooted in history, culture, and spirituality. The creation of this music is driven by a deep-seated connection to the land, ancestors, and cosmological beliefs of the Maori people. Through musical performances, individuals pay homage to their heritage, express gratitude to the natural world, and seek spiritual guidance from the divine.
Maori music embodies a blend of indigenous traditions and outside influences, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange and adaptation. While certain musical traits are uniquely regional, such as the use of specific instruments and vocal techniques, external influences from European settlers and missionaries have also shaped the evolution of Maori music over time.
Politics, religion, and human migration have all played significant roles in influencing the development of Maori musical traditions. Colonialism brought about shifts in cultural practices and introduced new musical elements to Maori society. Despite these external pressures, Maori music has endured as a resilient expression of identity and cultural pride.
By delving into the world of traditional Maori music, we gain insights into the profound connections between sound, behavior, and cultural ideologies. The music of Polynesia serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of indigenous peoples and their ongoing efforts to preserve their rich musical heritage in a rapidly changing world.
Conclusion
In conclusion,
the exploration of traditional Maori music within the context of Polynesian culture offers a window into the intricate tapestry of sounds, behaviors, and ideas that define this unique musical genre. Through Nettl's 3-part model, we have unravelled the intricate layers of Maori music, uncovering its spiritual significance, communal practices, and cultural resilience. As we reflect on the rich musical traditions of Polynesia, we are reminded of the universal language of music that transcends boundaries and connects us to our shared humanity across diverse cultures and landscapes.