Singing is central to the Xavante culture and is practised in conjunction with many daily activities. Singing is a dynamic bonding force amongst the tribe.

Emily Burridge was invited to record Xavante singing when over a period of four years she annually stayed with a Xavante community. The songs on this CD are a selection of individuals and groups singing, witnessed and recorded by Emily as the Xavante go about their daily activities.

Each night the Chief gathers together the occupants of the village. Having addressed the community he takes up his rattle and begins to sing. Gradually every one joins in. You can feel the solidarity increase as the voices unify. Generally a dance accompanies the song and there is no limit as to how many can participate.

Singing and Chanting is used to encourage healing to occur if someone is ill; the sick person is placed in the centre of a circle of men and they sing and dance around the person from night fall till dawn.
The adolescent boys form a choir and during puberty are accompanied by an elder who oversees their singing in designated areas of the village every night at sun down.

Sometimes the Chief sings of a vision from the dream time, accompanied by his rattle to ward off evil spirits.

The proceeds from the sale of your CD help fund the maintenance of the "Xavante small clinic/medicinal garden".

Visit the "Indigenous People's Cultural Support Trust" for further information.