Musical Education of American Indians at Hampton Institute (1878–1923) and the Work of Natalie Curtis (1904–1921)

TL;DRAbstract

The education of American students, particularly that which occurred at boarding schools during the mid-nineteenth century through the early twentieth century, has been covered extensively in many studies. However, these works mention little about the musical education of American students. The goal of boarding schools run by the federal government during this time period was to break down tribal relationships. (1) As a result, Native customs, including Native music, were not allowed on boarding school campuses. Students at these boarding schools learned music just as students at many public schools did, through general music classes and through band and orchestra programs. (2) One school did break with federal mandates and not only allowed students to sing their Native tunes in their Native tongue in full costume but featured them in concert. (3) This school was Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, which educated students during the years 1878 through 1923. General Samuel Armstr

Chat with Paper

AI Agents for this Paper