Hopi Kachina Dancers

There are severals kachinas ceremonies, the Soyalangwu Ceremony, Kyaamuya is in December, a sacred month when the gods return and the sun turns back on its way towards summer. The Hopi respectfully prepare for the arrival of the katsinam with storytelling and the Soyalangwu ceremony. The first few katsinam of the new year appear at the beginning of Soyalangwu, the winter solstice ceremony which may last up to nine days. It involves the making of prayer objects, many prayers and rituals, and a rabbit hunt and feast at its conclusion. The prayers and rituals help the Hopi turn the sun toward its summer home and begin giving strength to all life for the growing season ahead. Two Sivuktsinavit (two katsinat), representing fertility, procreation, and renewal approach females of the village and simulate copulation to symbolize fertilization of the new growing season Some Popular Kachinas Corn Maiden This Kachina is the most common female impersonation. She is said to purify the women who grind corn for ceremonies and other purposes. White Buffalo Warrior He represents the spirit of the White Buffalo which is a rare animal and one that is considered very sacred, this brings hope to the tribes. Also brings good luck. Hoop Dancer The Hoop Dancer amuses his audience and Kachinas with his magical circular, which represent the cycle of life. Eagle Kachina The beautiful Eagle Kachina sometimes appears at night ceremonies in March along with the Mud Heads. The dancer imitates the motion and the cry of an eagle to perfection.

Traditional Hopi Songs - Kachinas Dances 1924 recording by the Smithsonian Institution in Arizona including the Buffalo Dance, the Rain Dance, the Snake Dance. CD2396 - Hopi Katchina Songs... $ 25.00

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