Native American music is used largely for ceremonial purposes. The lyrics tell stories, and the drumming accompanies dancing. The music is quite different, stylistically, from European music. Rhythm is a primary organizer, and the drumming often features complicated polyrhythms. Tempos often start slow and steady, then get gradually faster as a song intensifies. Melodies have a limited range. Singers may sing in their native language, or they may use syllables, called vocables, that have no linguistic meaning.

Native American history and culture is largely unwritten but transmitted through the aural tradition. Stories are told through song. Some of these songs are meant to be shared with any audience, but some songs are associated with secret rituals and are not meant to be performed publicly. For all of these reasons, a definitive history of Native American music has not been documented. The first written records were by European settlers in the 16^th century. Musical instruments, and pictures portraying the use of music, date back to the 7^th century. It is believed that Native American music may have been influenced by tribes in modern-day Mexico, as well as Asian tribes who came across the Bering Strait.

The instruments associated with Native American music are constructed from natural materials found in the tribe’s local environment.

can all be fashioned into instruments. Drums are the primary instrument of most Native American tribes, but the flute is also widely used.
 

Music is not composed in Native American tribes; rather it is perceived to be a gift from the Creator. Musical talent is seen as a great power. Elder song leaders hold the respected responsibility of transmitting songs and stories to younger tribe members.
 

Historically, Native American music was segregated by gender, with men and women playing specific roles – even specific instruments – in musical rituals. These rules are starting to relax as women take on more prominent roles in the preservation of Native American music.