Otago linguist records traditional magic songs of Awajún people in Peru
Dr Simon Overall from Otago University is recording traditional magic songs of the Awajún people in northern Peruvian Amazonia.
Songs address spirits for specific purposes
Dr Overall explains that these songs usually ask a spirit or entity for its favor. Traditionally, there is a distinct song for every purpose such as gardening, hunting, or love.
Learning methods involve tobacco and elders
The elder chews tobacco and spits it out while the learner inhales the juice through their nose. This process is widely regarded as a learning tool before the student learns the song lyrics.
Culture blends modern life with tradition
Dr Overall notes that the Awajún culture is relatively modernized yet people still latch onto these traditional songs. The lyrics are also performed as an art form and appear in cumbia music genres.
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