CALL FOR SPEAKERS
2004 Plains Indian Seminar
September 30 – October 3, 2004

Enduring Expressions: Music and Dance of the Great Plains

For Native people of the Great Plains, music and dance are profound cultural and artistic expressions of tribal histories, experiences, traditions, and beliefs. Through difficult and challenging times, Plains Indian people have survived and found meaning in music and dance traditions that - combined with languages, arts, spirituality, and philosophies – define cultural identities. Today, in reservation communities or in cities, in small family gatherings or in public arenas, traditional tribal songs and dances endure and articulate an ongoing contemporary significance. Through the living traditions of music and dance, Native Plains people also have defined and communicated new experiences and influences in a changing world in innovative and creative manifestations.

The 2004 Plains Indian Seminar of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center will address the theme: Enduring Expressions: Music and Dance of the Great Plains. Suggested topics for presentation include ethnohistories of particular song or dance traditions, origins and histories of celebrations involving music and dance, effects of missionaries and other historical influences on music and dance traditions, musical instruments, artistic depictions of dance, powwows and related arts and regalia, theatrical musical and dance productions, and the significance of music and dance as contemporary cultural expression for Plains Indian people. Presentations that address new areas of Native American scholarship are encouraged.

Historians, anthropologists, educators, art historians, dancers, musicians, singers, artists, and other interested people are invited to submit a 250-word abstract along with a resume by May 31, 2004. Scholars and educators from tribal colleges and communities are especially invited to participate.

Address proposals or requests for further information to: