essay

An approach to the ethnography of Navajo ceremonial performance

Ethnography of musical performance [compiled by] Norma McLeod and Marcia HerndonNorwood, Pa. • Published In 1980 • Pages: 75-104, 199-212

By: Frisbie, Charlotte Johnson.

Abstract
This is a preliminary study offered by the author as an initial step in the job of identifying how an ethnography of Navajo ceremonial performance may be approached. Several important issues are discussed in reference to the ethnography of performance, such as keying devices (what initiates a ceremonial performance), factors affecting the structure and content of performance, the relation between context and content, aesthetics, flexibility, and variation. Rather than elaborating to any extent on any of these issues, the author focuses on the progression of events which constitute a Navajo ceremonial performance beginning with its initial inception, through it planning and preparation, to its onset and termination (p. 101).
Subjects
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Recording and collecting in the field
Magical and mental therapy
Shamans and psychotherapists
Organized ceremonial
culture
Navajo
HRAF PubDate
2004
Region
North America
Sub Region
Southwest and Basin
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnomusicologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle ; 2003
Field Date
1976
Coverage Date
1976
Coverage Place
Navajo Nation, Arizona, New Mexico, United States
Notes
Charlotte J. Frisbie
Includes bibliographical references (p. 199-212)
LCCN
80020428
LCSH
Navajo Indians