Stebbins Yup’ik Beats

This video features traditional Yup’ik drumming and dancing, showcasing the importance of rhythm, movement, and community in preserving and expressing Yup’ik cultural heritage in Stebbins, Alaska. It provides an authentic glimpse into the vibrant musical traditions of Alaska Native peoples, ideal for discussions on cultural identity and the role of the arts in Indigenous societies.

Classroom Guide

Essential Questions

  • How do the music and dance in this video reflect the cultural values and traditions of the Yup’ik people?
  • In what ways does community participation play a role in the preservation and performance of Yup’ik musical traditions?
  • Why is it important to maintain and share Indigenous cultural practices, such as those shown in the video, today?

Standards

  • Geography: A1 “Students should be able to analyze and explain how human and physical features influence history, culture, and the interdependence of places and regions.”
  • Cultural Standard E.2 “Students demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between their local environment, cultural traditions, and the use of natural resources.”