Welcome to Gaia! ::

Let me explain:

In my World Music History/Ethnomusicology class, which is basically 50% lecture and 50% field experience, I must study and perform a vocal style, instrument, or dance from any "non-western" cultural tradition (with the exception of things in the popular music culture). In short, I have a short list of stuff that I want to do that will be approved by my professor (to tell you the truth, my list of what I didn't want to do is much shorter. Actually, that list's total is 0):

• Buddhism
  
• Eastern Orthodox Church
  
• Traditional Aztec and Mexican
  
• Judaism
  
• Islam
  
• Hinduism
  
• American Indian
  

I have also discussed with my instructor asking for help finding an area of study that also involves GLBT music. However, I'm having difficulty finding non-western/popular music that I can perform and study in the GLBT community.

So... I ask if anyone can recommend some other cultures to study? If anyone is more-educated/enlightened on musical cultures in the queer community that would make me very happy as well. My professor has suggested American Indian or Hinduism for music that can empower/honour the GLBT lifestyle.

Also, I have until April to compile my research so I have some time. The most time-consuming thing is acutally learning the vocal style or the instrument or the dance style.

Edit/Update: In addition, I need to research two other related cultures in addition to the music of the culture I will be performing. So... uhh... ideas in groups of three please?

Wikipedia states that it is from India, Arc-san.

The Sitar sounds interesting... but might be hard for me to learn considering I only have backgrounds in violin/viola and tenor vocal singing.

I wouldn't mind learning a Japanese instrument. However Japan was already chosen by someone else and my professor doesn't want presentations on the same culture - even if it's a different aspect. Plus... from what he told the other person who took Japan (since we both asked questions after class) there really aren't any masters or instructors of Japanese performing arts around the area that he is aware of.

*sigh* Japanese theatre did sound really cool.

I'll look into Thai as well, Girl #13.

I read some stuff about Queercore as well. I don't think I'm going to find training on how to be a punk singer anytime soon in the area... sweatdrop

Is Esperanto music culture simply songs in Esperanto or are there different instruments and whatnot?

My professor has connections for Chinese work, Erve. Unfortunately... it's been taken along with Japanese as well. sweatdrop

Depending on my response... I could incorporate the study of two-spirits (American Indian) into my music project should I choose to study American Indian music culture.