The vibrant tapestry of a Pow Wow, a celebration of Native American culture and heritage, is brought to life by a dedicated team of individuals. Among these key figures are the Pow Wow Announcer, the Arena Director, and the Head Dancers, each playing a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation and cultural integrity of the event. These individuals, alongside the powerful Drum Groups, are the backbone of this spectacular gathering. This article will delve into the responsibilities and significance of each role, illuminating their contributions to the Pow Wow experience.
The Power of the Drum Group
Central to the Pow Wow is the music, which emanates from the "Drum," more accurately described as a Drum Group. This is not merely a musical ensemble; it’s a deeply interconnected group of singers who play a large, specially designed drum and sing traditional songs. The Drum Group is the heartbeat of the Pow Wow, providing the rhythmic pulse that guides the dancers and sets the spiritual tone of the gathering.
The composition of a Drum Group can vary in size, typically ranging from three to ten or more members. Often, these groups are formed around family ties, extended family connections, and close friendships. This strong familial and communal bond is reflected in the names they often choose, referencing their family name or the community they represent.
The attire of Drum Group members can vary. While some may choose to wear traditional regalia, blending into the vibrant display of dance regalia, others may opt for more casual street clothing. The age range within a Drum Group is equally diverse, encompassing everyone from young children learning the ancient songs to elders who have preserved these traditions for decades. This intergenerational participation ensures the continuity of cultural knowledge and practices.
The Evolving Role of Women Drummers
Historically, many tribes adhered to strict taboos regarding women’s participation in drumming. These traditional beliefs often restricted women’s presence near the drum itself. While many traditionalists still uphold these customs, a shift has occurred, particularly in urban Indian communities. In situations where male drummers may not be readily available, women have stepped up to ensure that their children are exposed to and learn traditional values.
Today, there are Drum Groups composed entirely of women, a testament to the evolving role of women in Native American culture. More traditionally, women singers often provide backup melodies, singing in harmony with the male vocalists, typically an octave higher. Their voices add depth and richness to the songs, creating a powerful and moving auditory experience.
The Significance of the Host Drum
At the heart of the Pow Wow’s musical landscape is the Host Drum. This designated Drum Group bears the primary responsibility for providing music for the dancers throughout the event. In larger, intertribal Pow Wows, two or more drums are often hired to serve as co-host drums. Being invited to be the Host Drum is considered a great honor, a recognition of the group’s skill and cultural knowledge. In return for their services, the Host Drum typically receives compensation, the amount of which varies depending on the specific Pow Wow.
In some regions, a distinction is made between a Host Northern Drum and a Host Southern Drum, reflecting the diverse musical traditions of different tribal groups. The size of the Pow Wow and its geographic location influence the number of drums present, with larger events often featuring drums representing a wide array of tribes and communities.
The Host Drum plays a crucial role in setting the rhythm and atmosphere of the Pow Wow. They are responsible for performing specific songs at the beginning and end of each session, including the starting song, the grand entry song, the flag song, and the veterans or victory song to commence the festivities, and a flag song, retreat song, and closing song to conclude the session.
Furthermore, at Pow Wows featuring gourd dancing, the Southern Host Drum is often entrusted with performing all the gourd songs, although other drums may also participate. The Host Drums are frequently called upon to sing special songs throughout the Pow Wow, adding to the event’s overall cultural richness.
While only the Host Drum or Co-Host Drums receive direct compensation from the Pow Wow organizers, other Drum Groups are welcome to participate and may receive donations from appreciative audience members or from individuals requesting an honor song for a specific purpose. Many drums participate simply for the joy of playing and contributing to the community.
Some Pow Wows feature drum competitions, where the quality of the performances is judged, and prize money is awarded to the winners. Both Host Drums and Guest Drums are eligible to compete for these prizes, adding an element of friendly competition to the event.
The Role of the Lead Singer
Within each Drum Group, a Lead Singer takes on the responsibility of leading the singers and guiding the musical performance. The Lead Singer initiates the song, singing the first part, followed by the other members who join in the second part.
The beat of the drum serves as a powerful symbol, representing the heartbeat of the community and the connection to ancestral traditions. The drumsticks act as conduits, connecting the singers to the power of the drum as they sing.
The Lead Singer’s role begins with a solo phrase or tune, known as the "lead" or "push-up." The rest of the group repeats this lead, which is referred to as the "second." Subsequently, all the singers unite to sing the melody (first part) and a repetition of the melody (second part).
A single rendition of the song is also called a "push-up." Therefore, if the announcer requests "four push-ups" from a drum, they will perform the sequence of lead, second, first part, and second part four times in succession.
The success of any Pow Wow hinges on effective leadership, and the individuals chosen to fill these roles are highly respected within their communities, serving as role models for younger generations.
The Pow Wow Announcer: The Voice of the Celebration
No Pow Wow is complete without the presence of Announcers, also known as MCs (Master of Ceremonies). These individuals are the orchestrators and motivators, responsible for keeping the dancing and singing contests flowing smoothly while keeping the audience informed about the events unfolding.
The more knowledgeable the announcer is about the dances and songs, the more effectively they can manage the events and call for specialty numbers. They also provide entertainment by sharing jokes, offering commentary, and giving directions. The Pow Wow Announcer sets the atmosphere for both the crowd and the contestants.
The Arena Director: Guardian of Order and Tradition
The Arena Director plays a critical role in maintaining order and ensuring the smooth progression of the Pow Wow. This individual is responsible for keeping track of the dance contests, singers, and special events. The Arena Director ensures that the dancers are informed about the timing of their dance sessions and provides updates so they can enter the dance arena at the correct time for their specific competition.
Furthermore, the Arena Director keeps the singers informed of the order in which their Drum Group will play and ensures that the judges are prepared. They assist the Pow Wow Announcer in maintaining an orderly flow of events and provide assistance as needed in the vicinity of the dance arena. The Arena Directors are invaluable in ensuring a successful celebration.
Head Dancers: Embodiments of Tradition and Role Models
Native American tribes have always emphasized the importance of providing exemplary role models for members of the tribe to emulate. The Head Male Dancer and Head Female Dancer serve as such role models. Individuals who demonstrate outstanding traditional qualities are selected to serve in this prestigious capacity.
The responsibilities of the Head Dancers include being present throughout the Pow Wow activities and leading the dancers by being the first to begin each dance. Typically, one male and one female head dancer are chosen for each age group in the competition. Being selected for this position is a great honor, signifying recognition of one’s cultural knowledge, dance skills, and commitment to preserving traditions. The Pow Wow Announcer always introduces them.
In conclusion, the Pow Wow is a complex and vibrant event, brought to life by the dedication and expertise of the Announcer, Arena Director, and Head Dancers. These individuals, working in concert with the Drum Groups, create a powerful and meaningful experience that celebrates Native American culture and heritage. Their roles are essential to the success and cultural integrity of the Pow Wow, ensuring that these traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.