Traditional drum dancing and throat singing explained

By Kira Wronska Dorward Local Journalism Inititative Reporter Drum dancing and throat singing were originally gendered activities in Inuit society, as explained by Leanna Wilson at Nunavut Parks “Learn To” session in the Iqaluit Visitors Centre on Aug. 6. “It looks like we have people from almost every community in Nunavut here,” says Wilson, originally from Pangirtung, looking at the group of 15 or so who assembled. According to Wilson, throat singing was originally an activity performed by women as a way to pass the time in camp. The singing also aided their babies, carried in amautis, fall asleep by being soothed as a result of the vibrations through the women’s backs. Over time, it became the source of friendly competition, with the goal of winning by making your opponent…

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