A new book by a Mississippi State music education faculty member examines the way American Indian music is presented in Oklahoma's elementary schools.
In "Repertoire, Authenticity and Instruction," assistant professor Robert J. Damm provides a wealth of updated information on the instruction of American Indian music. He also describes the effect of demographic variables of teachers and students on instructional content and practice.
The book recently was released by Garland Publishing of Bristol, Pa., as part of its "Native American Interdisciplinary Perspective" series. The scholastic collection is designed to serve as a national resource on issues of concern to Native Americans.
Oklahoma is home to nine major American Indian tribes--more than any other state, according to published figures. With more than 252,000, it correspondingly leads in the number of Native American residents.
Damm, who joined the faculty in 1995 and directs the MSU Percussion Ensemble, said he long has had an interest in American Indian culture. "This has been heightened after attending pow-wows, tribal fairs and rituals in Arizona, Oklahoma, Texas, and here in Mississippi," he added.
Damm said he is "committed to the importance of multicultural music education" and works to feature world music in percussion ensemble concerts and in his faculty artist recitals.
He holds a bachelor's degree from Quincy (Ill.) University, a master's from the University of Illinois and a doctorate from the University of North Texas.
He is active in the Percussive Arts Society and has served as president of the Mississippi Chapter.
