Music and Rituals

    The type of music changes from ritual to ritual. I found that this topic really connects to what we were learning with the Native American music culture because the music played at the powwows were specific to that ritual and culture. For me personally, the music in my life differs based on the event. So the music for a wedding would be different from the music for a birthday party or a funeral. 

    I have attend many wedding in my life. Wedding music tends to be more elegant and slow during the actual ceremony and the music during the reception depends on the bride and the groom and is typically more upbeat. The wedding ceremony usually has the typical classical music which is often known as Here Comes The Bride. This piece is often played on the organ. As for the wedding reception, the music typically played there is more of today's hits and more for celebration and dancing. The reception is more of a party in celebration of the bride and groom getting married, so it is more relaxed. 

    As for birthday parties, there is the typical happy birthday song which is sung before serving cake and ice cream. This traditional song has been sung at every single one of my birthdays and every birthday that I have attended. Other than the traditional song, the music at birthday parties are much like the music played at a wedding reception because it too is a celebration. 

    On the other hand, the music at funerals are more for the remembrance of life and is very gloomy typically. This type of music is often classical music, which is to set an emotional and moving feeling to the service. This music is slow and usually very light and typically instrumental. Traditionally, the song Amazing Grace is sung at funerals. This song is about redemption, and mercy from God.