Why did I choose First Nations music?
Growing up in Tsawwassen, a coastal community in British Columbia, I was always keen to dig deeper into First Nation's culture. The Salish community that resided only 5km away from my home maintained a relatively separate existence from our non-native community. In school, we never had the opportunity to learn about their culture, their history or why the members of our communities never interacted. Many years later, I now have the chance to explore such an integral part of their culture, their music. The diverse Aboriginal communities that exist all over our country have such rich culture and history. Their connections with their land have significantly influenced the instruments they build and the songs that they sing. Music, to them, is not simply a means of entertainment, rather each song they sing is purposeful and connects with their daily activities. Although, there is little information about their musical history, we know that this part of their culture lies deep within their long history.
As a future teacher in Canada, I believe it is extremely valuable to address the First Nation's culture in our classrooms; integrating First Nations music in the classroom presents educators with the opportunity to break down stereotypes and teach the culture through the lens of their music. This will promote further discussions surrounding the culture and traditions of the First Nations People.
As a future teacher in Canada, I believe it is extremely valuable to address the First Nation's culture in our classrooms; integrating First Nations music in the classroom presents educators with the opportunity to break down stereotypes and teach the culture through the lens of their music. This will promote further discussions surrounding the culture and traditions of the First Nations People.