Singing My Spirit of Identity: Aboriginal Music for Well-being in a Canadian Inner City

Journal

MUSICultures

Year

2009

Volume

36

First Page

1

Last Page

21

Abstract

In this article the author explores relationships between Aboriginal Canadian music-making, personal meaningfulness, identity and well-being in urban Canada, through a case study of Aboriginal singing in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Healing programs for remediating situations of substance misuse, crime, and violence, are examined as contexts for revealing how Aboriginal musical expressions, including ceremony, and associated teachings and world views, become significant as individuals choose and affirm lifestyles of wellness and dignity. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]

Music and Health Institute Terms

Mental Health; Music Medicine; Racial Disparities; Recreative Music Methods; Self-Concept; Self-Report Measures; Singing a Song; Substance Use, Abuse and Addiction; Wellness and Well-Being

Indexed Terms

Vocal Music; Singing; Aboriginal music; Health; Lifestyles; Urban Environments; Canadian music; Cultural Identity; Case studies; Violence; Crime; Drug Addiction; Healing Music; Drumming; Canada

Study Type

Case Study; Qualitative Methods

Disciplines

Substance Abuse and Addiction

Document Type

Article

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