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Singing has always been an important way for Inuit to express themselves. There are several types of traditional singing including pihiit or Aijaa-jaa (regular songs) and generally accompanied by hand drums and dancing. Another is throat-singing, generally done by two women facing each other.
One of the earliest recordings of an Inuk pihiit (song) was recorded by the ethnographer Diamond Jenness on wax cylinder. The artist is Illatsiak. Listen to the song found on the site at
www.kitikmeotheritage.ca/Angulalk/inuitrd/akiliniq/akiliniq.htm and have your students write down their impressions of the music. Keep in mind that the recording technology of the time distorted the actual sound of a person’s voice. What mood do you think Illatsiak was creating in the song?
While traditional songs are still sung and drum dancing is still important a sign of a healthy culture is one that adapts and changes. Inuit have a strong musical culture. Have your students research some modern day Inuit singers and song-writers. They will be amazed at the diversity. A list of artists and their websites below will help you start your search.
Lucie Idlout www.lucieidlout.com/
Tanya Tagaq www.tanyatagaq.com/en/home
Susan Aglukark www.susanaglukark.com
Taima www.taimaproject.com
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