Native American music from a wide variety of tribal traditions (mostly in the western U.S. and Canada, northwest Mexico) ranging from archival/historical recordings to modern renditions of traditional melodies.  Songs can be for ceremonial, honoring, social, courting, and healing purposes.  Can be sung with or without accompaniment (usually drum or rattle, sometimes European derived instruments like violin or flute), by groups or solo singers.  As various Native American communities maintain and foster their time-honored traditions, this music represents a living culture.  Albums usually include extensive explanatory notes and available pictures to improve educational value.