In this episode of SORAPod we are joined by Renata Yazzie - a Diné pianist and musicologist currently between New York City & New Mexico. Her research focuses on the intersections of Diné song and music with religion, theory, pedagogy, popular culture, and neurochemistry. Renata discusses the historical context of Navajo hymnals, the evolution of music within her culture, and the significance of language in expressing identity. The conversation explores the interplay between tradition and modernity, the role of voice in music, and the impact of historical events on cultural practices. Renata also reflects on her academic journey, the challenges of bridging Indigenous knowledge with academia, and her experiences living in New York City as a Navajo person.
Music in this episode: Levi Platero's All I've Got Is The BluesIf you want to support the SORAPod and help us stay caffeinated while we record and edit, you can buy us a coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/sorapod
