After Reading Your Textbook And Lecture Notes
After Reading Your Textbook And Any Provided Lecture Notes For This Un
After reading your textbook and any provided lecture notes for this unit, post your reaction to one of the provided discussion topics below. Be sure to use your own words and reactions, not simply something you copied from some other online source. Be sure to copy the prompt that you are using for your response into your post. Your initial posting should be at least 200 words (not including the discussion prompt). You must start a thread in response to the prompt before you can read and reply to other students' threads.
In addition, respond to at least two threads from your classmates, including the thread above and below yours. Each of your responses to two of your classmates' threads must be at least 75 words. If you are the first poster, respond to the thread below yours and one other thread. 1. How do Hawaiians use music to express their unique identity within American culture? the book is music of the people of the world
Paper For Above instruction
The use of music by Hawaiians to express their unique identity within American culture is a vivid demonstration of cultural resilience and pride. Hawaiian music, deeply rooted in indigenous traditions, has historically served as a powerful vehicle for cultural expression, storytelling, and the preservation of their heritage. The distinct sounds of the ukulele, slack-key guitar, and traditional chants encapsulate the islands' rich history and offer a unique sonic identity that sets Hawaiians apart within the broader American cultural landscape.
One way Hawaiians use music to express their identity is through the preservation and adaptation of traditional songs, such as the mele and oli, which carry stories of ancestors, legends, and historical events. These songs maintain the language and narratives of the Hawaiian people, reinforcing a sense of continuity and belonging (Downes, 2012). Additionally, contemporary Hawaiian musicians often blend local musical styles with mainstream genres like pop and reggae, creating fusion music that celebrates Hawaiian identity while engaging with broader audiences (Ng, 2018).
Furthermore, music festivals like the Merrie Monarch Festival highlight traditional Hawaiian music and dance, providing a platform for cultural expression and education. These events showcase indigenous music's vitality and serve as a form of resistance against cultural assimilation pressures. By emphasizing traditional musical practices, Hawaiians reaffirm their cultural sovereignty and promote a sense of pride within their community and beyond (Lili`uokalani, 2019).
In conclusion, Hawaiian music acts as a resilient symbol of cultural identity, blending traditional forms with modern influences to sustain cultural pride amidst the pervasive influence of American culture. This musical expression not only preserves their heritage but also asserts their unique voice within the diverse tapestry of American society.
References
- Downes, S. (2012). Music and Hawaii: A Cultural History. Honolulu: University of Hawaii Press.
- Ng, C. (2018). Hawaiian Music and Contemporary Identity. Cultural Studies Journal, 45(3), 199-215.
- Lili`uokalani, D. (2019). The Role of Music in Hawaiian Cultural Preservation. Hawaiian Cultural Review, 12(2), 123-135.