Course Description: 

Sept 18 GLR - Looking to the Skies

Ancient people of the American Southwest lived closely with Mother Earth and were able to survive in arid parts of this land. They looked to the sky and used what the sky provided, from the sun that helped things grow to the stars that guided people at night. This session will focus on Pueblo beliefs about certain astronomical objects from the perspective of a Jemez Pueblo tribal member.

 

Sept 25 GLR - Pueblo Lifeways and Traditions

The people of the American Southwest have a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. This presentation will focus on the Pueblo People, and more specifically, the Jemez People. Marlon will begin with an orientation on Pueblo languages and cultures, before delving into his own experiences as a Jemez Pueblo tribal member. Artifacts and replicas will be utilized to discuss their usage and meaning in Pueblo culture.

 

Oct 2 GLR - Indigenous Musical Instruments of the Southwest

Pueblo people have rich musical traditions dating back millennia. Several types of musical instruments have been in continuous use and others have long been forgotten. This presentation examines both through the utilization of replicas derived from the archaeological record and instruments that are still used today.

 

Oct 9 GLR - Native American Flute playing and making demonstration

There are many types of flutes that were developed by the indigenous people of America that have been in use for thousands of years. The modern standardized flute known as the “Native American Flute” has allowed for the popularity of flutes to grow while causing some confusion about what a Native American Flute really is. This presentation will discuss the history, construction methods, and playing techniques of the different varieties of flutes that were made and used by many Native American tribes and nations. (President’s note: These flutes are gorgeous and Marlon plays them beautifully. Not to be missed!)

 

Oct 16 CMR - Storytelling Through Music

Many indigenous communities throughout the New World do not have written languages. This means that the traditional cultural knowledge of those communities has to be passed orally from one generation to the next. Music often plays a pivotal role in how communities pass on knowledge, specifically during participation in seasonal cultural activities. The focus of this presentation will be on storytelling through music as learned and taught by a Jemez Pueblo tribal member.