Music: Song & Dance
Coming to the Drum
This section is dedicated to all forms of American Indian music and dance found in Oklahoma. "The drum," in this case, represents the contemporary Powwow experience.
Many other forms of traditional Indian music also are represented in Oklahoma such as traditional music by tribe or nation, church songs, and more.

Belo Cozad, Kiowa, plays flute
at Riverside School circa 1939.
MOVING HISTORY: The Evolution of the Powwow
by Dennis W. Zotigh
"Powwows are a celebration of being Indian!"
Tribal Songs Project

Jim Anqoue, family, and friends form the Redstone Drum.
Redstone is a Kiowa community west of Anadarko.

Jim Anqoue, family, and friends form the Redstone Drum.
Redstone is a Kiowa community west of Anadarko.

An ethnology recording
made in 1908.

Powwow at Sacred Heart Mission
in Pottawatomie County 1999.
Pictured in the banner above: Mariachi Orgullo represents the iconic music of Jalisco, Mexico. Mariachis play for Baptisms, weddings, birthdays, weddings, and even at funerals. Usually, Mariachis help celebrate happy times and new beginnings". Mariachi Orgullo members come from the greater Oklahoma City area and although Mariachi music is a Mexican tradition several members do not have Mexican heritage.

In My Heart
Oral traditions in religious communities in Oklahoma
by Dr. Guy Logsdon
Oklahoma's Black Sacred Music Traditions
by Dr. Willie Smyth
Sounds Good!
Musical Traditions of Oklahoma.
![]() Muskogee born, Jay "Hootie" McShann. McShann's jazz piano playing was always with a swing rhythm. He played with many jazz greats including Charlie Parker and is best known for his song "Confessin' the Blues". |
by Rodger Harris ![]() Anita and Jesse Martinez and amigos. |
All Join Hands
Oklahoma Dance Traditions
![]() Lion dancers gather at the State Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City. |
![]() Choctaw youth dance at Tuskahoma. |
![]() Kung Fu Master, Ricky Leturia and friend perform traditional Chinese lion dancing at the Oklahoma History Center. |
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