I find ancient American tribal music closest to nature's hymns and cacophonies

 Ancient Native American music is a diverse and culturally rich tradition that reflects the customs and beliefs of indigenous peoples across North America. It encompasses a wide array of instruments, vocal styles, and musical functions that were integral to the spiritual, social, and cultural lives of Native American tribes.

Instrumentation played a crucial role in Native American music, with drums being central to many traditions. Crafted from wood and animal hides, drums varied in size and were used in ceremonies, dances, and storytelling. Flutes, often made of wood or bone, produced haunting melodies used in courtship rituals, healing ceremonies, and storytelling. Rattles and shakers, made from natural materials like gourds and turtle shells, accompanied dances and songs, adding texture and rhythm to the music. Some tribes also utilized string instruments, like the Apache fiddle, albeit less commonly.

Vocal music was equally significant, featuring complex patterns of rhythm and melody. Ceremonial songs were used in rituals and healing practices, often designed to induce trance-like states. Storytelling songs conveyed historical events, moral lessons, or mythological tales, while social songs were integral to communal activities such as dances and feasts. Additionally, lullabies and love songs served personal and intimate purposes, soothing children or expressing romantic sentiments.

The style of music varied widely between tribes, with distinctive regional variations. Plains tribes, for instance, were known for their powwow music characterized by rhythmic drumming and high-pitched singing. Southwestern tribes like the Hopi and Navajo utilized flutes and complex vocal harmonies, while Northwestern tribes such as the Haida and Tlingit employed wooden plank drums and polyphonic singing.

Music served multifaceted functions within Native American societies. It was not merely entertainment but also held ritual, spiritual, and social significance. Used in ceremonies to connect with the divine, seek guidance, or ensure success in endeavors like hunting or harvests, music was deeply intertwined with indigenous worldviews and cultural identity. Today, ancient Native American music continues to influence contemporary indigenous musicians, preserving its cultural heritage for future generations.