LAKE GENEVA POWWOW

Father's Day Weekend
LAKE GENEVA, WISCONSIN

The Songs

To newcomers, it may be difficult to distinguish the differences among the songs they hear at powwows. There are thousands of songs, both old and new, and more are being composed all the time. Every song has unique, often subtle characteristics, and it may take some time to learn to hear them.

A typical song consists of four parts:

1. The first line is sung by the lead singer alone.
2. The next line is a repeat of the lead that is sung by the rest of the drum.
3. The chorus is then sung by all by all members of the drum, including the women.
4. The chorus is then repeated.

Honor beats are accented beats between the choruses. Many dancers raise their feather fans or other items carried as part of their regalia during these beats. This four-part pattern is generally repeated four times, but the song may be extended during a long grand entry or if someone blows an eagle whistle in honor of the drum and the song.

Flag Songs

Just as the United States has a national anthem, many tribes have a flag song. A flag song is sung after the flags are carried in during grand entry. It is an honor song, and everyone who is able is asked to stand and be silent to give the flag its proper respect. Gentlemen are also asked to remove their hats during these songs.

Veteran Songs

Veterans are very highly respected in Native American cultures, and special songs, both traditional and new, tell of their experiences. As is the case for flag songs, everyone who is able is asked to stand and be silent during veteran songs to honor those who have served our country.

Honor Songs

People may request drum songs for family members, friends, members of the community -- anyone whom they wish to honor in this special way. It is customary to approach the head singer of a drum with a gift to request an honor song.

Intertribals

Intertribals are the most common songs. They are an invitation for everyone to get up on their feet and join in on the dancing, whether they are in regalia or not, whether they are Native or not. Everybody dance!

Traveling Songs

It is customary to close the powwow with a traveling song to wish everyone a safe journey home. MainText

Learn More

Etiquette
Powwow Staff
The Arena
The Four Circles
The Spirit Fire
The Songs
Men's Dances
Women's Dances
Social Dances
Powwow Calendar