June 27, 2019
Keeping the traditions alive
By Jerry W. Kram
Recently the main lodge at the Earth Lodge Village rang to the beat of the drum and words passed down from father to son as MHA Tourism sponsored a Traditional Jam Session both to bring traditional singers together and record songs for future generations.
Jason Morsette hosted the session for MHA Tourism. He said that in the past singers would gather just to share and learn songs outside of powwows and celebrations. He would like to see that tradition revived.
“I wanted to get more of our people to sing together,” Morsette said. “I want to get people around just one drum and get them feeling good to be together. We can feel good again to sing for our people, for our families and sing for those who sick, those who are having a hard time and pick up their spirits. That’s is what the drum is supposed to be.”
Jason Morsette hosted the session for MHA Tourism. He said that in the past singers would gather just to share and learn songs outside of powwows and celebrations. He would like to see that tradition revived.
“I wanted to get more of our people to sing together,” Morsette said. “I want to get people around just one drum and get them feeling good to be together. We can feel good again to sing for our people, for our families and sing for those who sick, those who are having a hard time and pick up their spirits. That’s is what the drum is supposed to be.”
