Native American Music and Dance: The Bands of Indians

Native American music and dance have long been an integral part of the rich cultural tapestry of Indigenous communities in North America. The Bands of Indians, with their distinct styles and traditions, offer a fascinating glimpse into the diverse musical heritage that has shaped Native American culture over centuries. To illustrate this point, let us consider the case study of the Navajo Nation, one of the largest tribes in the United States.

The Navajo Nation is renowned for its vibrant musical traditions, which encompass both vocal and instrumental performances. One example of their unique musical expression is the use of traditional instruments such as drums, flutes, rattles, and stringed instruments like the Apache fiddle. These instruments are not only played during ceremonial events but also serve as powerful mediums through which stories are told and histories are preserved within the community. Furthermore, Navajo music often incorporates complex rhythmic patterns that reflect their deep spiritual connection to nature and the land they inhabit.

In addition to music, dance plays a significant role in Native American cultures, serving as a means of storytelling, celebration, and spiritual connection. Each tribe has its own distinctive dances that embody specific meanings and symbolize various aspects of tribal life. For instance, among the Plains Indian tribes like the Lakota Sioux or Che yenne, dances such as the Sun Dance or the Grass Dance are performed to honor and connect with the natural world, express gratitude for a successful hunt or harvest, or seek spiritual guidance.

Similarly, the Navajo Nation has its own unique dance traditions. The most well-known Navajo dance is the “Squaw Dance” or “Ye’iibicheii,” which is performed during social gatherings and ceremonies. This dance involves intricate footwork accompanied by singing and drumming. It serves as a way to celebrate community connections, express cultural identity, and offer prayers for blessings and good fortune.

It’s important to note that Native American music and dance are not static forms of expression but continue to evolve and adapt over time. Many Indigenous communities actively work to preserve their musical heritage while also incorporating contemporary influences into their performances. They recognize the importance of passing down these traditions to future generations as a means of preserving cultural identity and fostering a sense of pride in their heritage.

Overall, Native American music and dance are powerful vehicles for storytelling, cultural preservation, spiritual connection, and community cohesion within Indigenous communities like the Navajo Nation. By engaging with these art forms, people from all backgrounds can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich diversity of Native American cultures and their contributions to the broader tapestry of human creativity.

Powwow Music Overview

Imagine yourself standing in a vast open field, surrounded by the vibrant colors of traditional Native American regalia. The air is filled with rhythmic drumming and melodic singing as dancers gracefully move to the beat. This captivating scene represents the essence of powwow music, an integral part of Native American culture.

Powwows are social gatherings that bring together various tribes from across North America. They serve as a platform for cultural exchange, celebration, and spiritual connection. At the heart of these events lies powwow music, characterized by its powerful rhythms and soulful melodies.

To understand the significance of powwow music, let’s delve into some key aspects:

1. Drum Groups: Central to any powwow gathering is the presence of drum groups comprised of talented musicians who form a circle around a large communal drum. These drums are often handcrafted and richly decorated, reflecting both tribal traditions and personal stories. The steady beat created by the drum serves as the heartbeat of the powwow, guiding dancers through their movements.

2. Singing Styles: Powwow songs can be categorized into various singing styles such as Northern Plains style or Southern Plains style, each representing different tribal regions and musical characteristics. These songs are traditionally sung in indigenous languages but may also incorporate English lyrics today, serving as a bridge between tradition and contemporary influences.

3. Dance Styles: Just as there are distinct singing styles, there are also diverse dance styles performed during powwows. From graceful women’s jingle dress dancing to energetic men’s fancy dance routines, each movement holds deep cultural meaning rooted in ancestral traditions passed down through generations.

4. Regalia Significance: Every dancer dons intricately crafted regalia that reflects their individual identity within their tribe while honoring their ancestors’ heritage. Each beadwork stitch and feather placement tells a story unique to their family history and cultural background.

The emotional impact of powwow music can be felt through its ability to foster a sense of unity, pride, and connection amongst participants. The rhythmic drumming and mesmerizing melodies create an atmosphere where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together to celebrate their shared heritage.

In the following section, we will explore the enchanting world of Native American flute melodies, allowing us to further appreciate the depth and diversity encompassed within this rich musical tradition.

Exploring Flute Melodies

As we delve deeper into the world of Native American music and dance, it is crucial to understand the cultural significance that powwow music holds within indigenous communities. To illustrate this, let us consider a hypothetical scenario where a young member of the Ojibwe tribe participates in his first powwow.

Powwows serve as important gatherings for Native American tribes across North America, fostering community unity and preserving cultural traditions. The rhythmic beats and melodic tunes of powwow music play an integral role in creating a sense of belonging and pride among participants. It is through these vibrant melodies that stories are told, history is passed down from generation to generation, and tribal identities are celebrated.

To provide further insight into the cultural significance of powwow music, here are some key aspects worth exploring:

1. Spiritual Connection: Powwow songs often carry spiritual undertones, connecting individuals with their ancestors and the natural world around them. Through ceremonial dances accompanied by these sacred melodies, participants seek guidance, healing, and spiritual renewal.

2. Social Bonding: Powwows provide opportunities for intertribal interactions, allowing different nations to come together and share their unique customs and practices. As dancers move gracefully to the rhythm of the drums, bonds between communities strengthen, promoting understanding and respect among diverse indigenous groups.

3. Intergenerational Transmission: One remarkable aspect of powwow music is its ability to bridge generational gaps within Native American families. Elders pass on their knowledge and expertise in singing traditional songs to younger members who will carry forward these musical legacies for future generations.

4. Healing Power: Within many Native American cultures, powwows also hold therapeutic value. The harmonious sounds emitted during these events have been known to promote emotional well-being while providing a space for individuals to express themselves freely.

These four elements beautifully exemplify the deep-rooted cultural significance inherent in powwow music. To further explore the multifaceted world of Native American musical traditions, let us now turn our attention to the captivating melodies produced by traditional flutes.

Table: Traditional Powwow Instruments

In conclusion, powwow music serves as more than mere entertainment; it is a cultural cornerstone deeply ingrained in Native American communities. Through spiritual connections, social bonding, intergenerational transmission, and healing power, these mesmerizing melodies bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds while preserving ancestral customs and fostering collective pride. As we transition into exploring the art of drumming in the subsequent section, we will uncover another crucial aspect of Native American musical practices – one that holds immense significance within indigenous cultures across North America.

The Art of Drumming

Exploring Flute Melodies: A Journey into Native American Music

Imagine standing on the banks of a tranquil river, surrounded by lush greenery. As you close your eyes, the haunting sound of a wooden flute fills the air, transporting you to another time and place. This is just one example of how Native American music captivates listeners with its enchanting melodies and rich cultural heritage.

Flutes have long been an essential part of Native American musical traditions. These instruments are often crafted from wood or bone, meticulously carved to produce unique tones that reflect the natural world. The melodies played on these flutes vary among different tribes, each carrying its own distinct significance.

Native American flute melodies can evoke various emotions in their listeners. They possess the power to transport us to distant landscapes or awaken memories deep within our souls. Through their ethereal sounds, they offer solace, healing, and a connection to ancestral roots.

To further understand the importance of flute melodies in Native American music, let’s delve into some key aspects:

1. Spiritual Significance:

   • Flute playing is often considered a sacred act.
   • It serves as a means for communication with the spiritual realm.
   • Melodies are believed to carry prayers and messages between humans and nature.

2. Cultural Expressions:

   • Each tribe has its own traditional tunes passed down through generations.
   • Flute melodies serve as expressions of tribal identity and pride.
   • They showcase intricate craftsmanship by artisans who create these beautiful instruments.

3. Healing Power:

   • Some believe that listening to flute melodies can bring emotional and physical healing.
   • The soothing tones promote relaxation, reduce stress, and restore harmony within oneself.

4. Connection with Nature:

   • Flute melodies often mimic sounds found in nature like bird songs or flowing water.
   • By imitating these natural elements, musicians establish a profound bond with their environment.

In exploring the world of Native American flute melodies, we gain a deeper appreciation for their cultural significance and emotional impact. As we move forward to explore “The Art of Drumming,” let us continue our journey into the vibrant realm of Native American music.

Table:

As we transition to the next section on “Traditional Singing Styles,” we will delve further into the diverse ways in which Native Americans express themselves through vocal performances.

Traditional Singing Styles

Transitioning from the previous section on “The Art of Drumming,” we now delve into another integral aspect of Native American music and dance: traditional singing styles. By exploring different vocal techniques employed by various Indigenous tribes, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich diversity found within Native American musical traditions.

To illustrate this point, let us consider an example from the Navajo tribe, whose songs often reflect their connection to nature and the spiritual world. During ceremonial gatherings, such as the Enemy Way ceremony, singers employ a unique melodic style characterized by repetitive phrases and intricate ornamentation. Through these enchanting melodies, they aim to invoke healing and protection for individuals dealing with emotional or physical distress.

When examining traditional singing styles across Native American cultures, several key features emerge:

• Vocal Range: Singers may utilize a wide range of pitches—from low resonant tones to high-pitched falsetto—to create dynamic expressions.
• Call-and-Response Patterns: Many songs incorporate call-and-response structures where a lead vocalist chants a phrase or melody line, which is then echoed by the rest of the group.
• Vocables: Rather than using specific words or lyrics in their songs, many Indigenous communities employ vocables—syllables that carry melodic meaning without explicit linguistic content.
• Harmonization Techniques: In some instances, multiple voices intertwine harmonically to create complex textures and captivating arrangements.

Table: Examples of Traditional Singing Styles

These distinct singing styles not only serve as a means of artistic expression but also play vital roles within Native American communities. They provide avenues for cultural preservation, storytelling, and spiritual connection, fostering a sense of unity and identity among tribe members.

Transitioning into the subsequent section about “Instruments: Rattles and Shakers,” we continue our exploration of the diverse musical elements that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Native American music. By examining the significance of these rhythmic instruments, we gain further insights into the intricate interplay between sound, movement, and cultural traditions.

Instruments: Rattles and Shakers

Building upon the rich tradition of Native American music and dance, we now delve into the fascinating world of instruments used in these cultural expressions. In this section, we explore the significance of rattles and shakers within Native American music and dance.

Rattles and shakers hold a prominent role in traditional Indigenous performances, adding rhythmic elements that enhance the overall experience for both performers and spectators. Consider, for instance, a gathering where members of the Navajo tribe come together to celebrate their annual harvest festival. As part of their ceremonial ritual, dancers adorn themselves with colorful regalia while musicians skillfully manipulate rattles and shakers to create an enchanting soundscape.

To better understand the importance of rattles and shakers in Native American culture, let us examine some key aspects:

• Symbolic Significance: Rattles and shakers are not solely musical instruments; they also carry symbolic meanings deeply rooted in tribal traditions. These objects often represent natural elements like rain or thunderstorms or animals such as snakes or birds. The use of these symbols connects individuals to their ancestral heritage during rituals and ceremonies.
• Versatility: Rattles and shakers exhibit remarkable versatility across different tribes and regions. They can be made from diverse materials including gourds, turtle shells, bones, or seeds – each producing unique timbres. This variety allows for individual expression among performers while maintaining collective cohesion.
• Ritualistic Function: Beyond their auditory contributions, rattles and shakers play crucial roles in spiritual practices. Their rhythmic patterns serve to invoke spirits or deities through repetitive motion. This connection between sound and spirituality creates a sense of unity among participants as they strive to honor their ancestors.

Let us further appreciate the significance of rattles and shakers through this emotional journey:

Emotional Journey:

• Captivating rhythms transporting listeners to ancient realms
• Harmonious vibrations resonating deep within one’s being
• Sacred symbolism intertwined with cultural identity
• Profound spiritual experiences connecting individuals with their ancestors

Emotions evoked through these auditory and visual stimuli bring an added layer of depth to the Native American music and dance experience.

As we conclude this exploration into rattles and shakers within Native American music and dance, we transition into our next section: “The Energetic World of Fancy Dancing.” In this segment, we will delve into the vibrant movements and elaborate regalia associated with this dynamic form of expression.

The Energetic World of Fancy Dancing

As we delve further into the vibrant world of Native American music and dance, let us now turn our attention to the captivating realm of fancy dancing. Imagine a bustling powwow arena, filled with spectators eagerly awaiting the awe-inspiring performances that lie ahead. Amongst the various dances showcased during these events, Fancy dancing stands out for its dynamic movements, intricate footwork, and colorful regalia.

Picture a young dancer adorned in an ornate outfit, feathers swaying with each graceful step. With swift spins and agile leaps, they effortlessly captivate their audience. Fancy dancers are known for their lightning-fast footwork, requiring immense skill and practice to execute complex steps such as toe-heel turns or quick hops from one foot to another. This remarkable display of athleticism is accompanied by rhythmic drumming and chanting which add depth to the overall experience.

To understand more about this exuberant form of dance, let us explore some key elements associated with fancy dancing:

1. Regalia: Elaborate outfits consisting of intricately beaded moccasins, feathered bustles adorning the backside, brightly colored fringe details on shirts and pants.
2. Dance Styles: Different styles within fancy dancing include Northern Traditional (emphasizing strength and agility) and Southern Straight (highlighting gracefulness).
3. Drum Groups: Essential components of powwows where singers provide live music using traditional drums like bass drums or hand drums.
4. Competitions: Powwow events often feature competitions where dancers showcase their skills in front of judges who evaluate them based on criteria such as timing, rhythm, creativity, showmanship, and adherence to tradition.

In addition to understanding these facets of fancy dancing through text alone, it may also prove helpful to visualize how different aspects interconnect. The following table provides a snapshot illustrating this connection:

Witnessing a fancy dancing performance is an experience that evokes admiration and awe. The sheer passion and dedication exhibited by these dancers serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage they embody. As we continue our exploration of Native American music and dance, let us now delve into the cultural significance embedded within powwow music.

[Transition sentence: Now, let’s examine the Cultural Significance in Powwow Music…]

Cultural Significance in Powwow Music

From the vibrant world of Fancy Dancing, we now turn our attention to the cultural significance embedded within Powwow Music. This section explores how Native American music and dance serve as powerful expressions of identity, spirituality, and community belonging.

One compelling example that showcases the profound impact of Powwow Music is the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For over three decades, this event has brought together thousands of Indigenous people from various tribes across North America. The rhythmic beats of drums reverberate through the air as dancers adorned in colorful regalia move with grace and precision. It is a mesmerizing sight that embodies unity, resilience, and cultural pride.

To better understand the cultural richness encapsulated within Powwow Music, let us delve into its importance:

1. Spiritual Connection: Powwows provide a space for individuals to connect with their spiritual roots through music and dance. The steady pulse of drumming replicates the heartbeat of Mother Earth while songs recount ancient stories and traditions.
2. Intertribal Unity: These gatherings foster intertribal connections by bringing diverse Indigenous nations together under one common purpose – celebrating heritage and strengthening bonds.
3. Healing and Resilience: In many cases, Powwow Music serves as an outlet for healing historical trauma inflicted upon Indigenous communities. Through dance and song, individuals find solace, strength, and empowerment.
4. Revitalization Efforts: Powwows play a vital role in preserving Native American culture by passing down traditional practices from one generation to another. They inspire younger members to embrace their heritage proudly.

Let us now explore these aspects further through a table highlighting different elements found within Powwow Music:

In summary, Powwow Music serves as a vessel for Native American communities to express their identity, spirituality, and resilience. Through the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow and countless other gatherings like it, Indigenous people continue to honor their heritage while inspiring future generations to embrace their roots.

With this understanding of the cultural significance in Powwow Music, we now transition to explore another captivating aspect of Native American music: The Serenity of Flute Music.

The Serenity of Flute Music

Native American music and dance have long been an integral part of indigenous culture, serving as a means of preserving traditions and expressing identity. Building upon the previous section’s exploration of the cultural significance in Powwow music, this section delves into another form of Native American musical expression: the serene sounds of flute music.

Flute music holds a special place within Native American communities, often associated with introspection and spiritual connection to nature. To illustrate its impact, let us consider the fictional case study of Sarah, a young Navajo woman seeking solace after experiencing personal loss. One day, she stumbles upon a traditional flute performance at a local gathering. As she listens to the haunting melodies resonating through the air, Sarah finds herself transported to a state of tranquility, allowing her grief-stricken heart some respite.

The emotional power of flute music can be attributed to several factors:

1. Simplicity and Elegance:

   • The minimalistic yet captivating sound produced by flutes evokes feelings of purity and simplicity.
   • This stripped-down approach serves as a reminder that beauty can be found in even the most basic elements.

2. Connection to Nature:

   • Flute music often imitates natural sounds such as birdsong or wind rustling through trees.
   • By channeling these earthly tones, listeners are encouraged to forge a deeper connection with their surroundings.

3. Therapeutic Effects:

   • Researchers have suggested that listening to flute music can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
   • Its soothing qualities make it an ideal companion for meditation or healing practices.

4. Cultural Identity:

   • For many Native Americans, flute music carries historical and cultural significance.
   • It acts as a medium through which ancestral stories are told and passed down from one generation to another.

In conclusion, the enchanting melodies of Native American flute music have a powerful impact on both individuals and communities. This section has explored its ability to provide solace, evoke emotional responses, and foster a connection with nature. As we transition into the subsequent section about rhythm and spirituality in drumming, we will further explore how different musical elements contribute to the rich tapestry of Native American music as a whole.

Rhythm and Spirituality in Drumming

Section H2: Rhythm and Spirituality in Drumming

The Serenity of Flute Music can transport listeners to a state of tranquility, but Native American music is not limited to melodious tunes alone. In fact, the rhythmic beats of drums play a significant role in tribal ceremonies and cultural expressions. The power of drumming lies not only in its ability to captivate audiences with its pulsating rhythms but also in its deep connection to spirituality.

One compelling example illustrating the significance of drumming is found among the Lakota Sioux tribe, where the beat of the drum holds immense spiritual meaning during their Sun Dance ceremony. This sacred ritual serves as an opportunity for participants to connect with their ancestors and seek guidance from higher powers. As the dancers move around the ceremonial grounds, their steps synchronize with the resounding thumps of the drumbeat, creating an atmosphere charged with energy and devotion.

To delve further into this profound aspect of Native American culture, it is essential to understand why drumming holds such spiritual weight. Here are some key elements associated with rhythm and spirituality in Native American drumming:

• Unity: The collective experience created by synchronized drumming fosters a sense of unity within a community or tribe.
• Healing: Many tribes believe that certain rhythms produced by drums possess healing properties, capable of restoring balance and harmony within individuals.
• Communication: Drums have historically been used as a means of communication between tribes or even across great distances.
• Connection to Nature: The repetitive beats mimic natural sounds like thunderstorms or hoofbeats, reinforcing indigenous peoples’ connection to their environment.

Table 1:

Native American drumming serves not only as a cultural expression but also as a spiritual practice deeply rooted in tradition. The rhythmic patterns and vibrations produced by drums hold the power to transport individuals into heightened states of consciousness, enabling them to connect with their spiritual selves and their ancestors. By embracing these sacred rhythms, Native Americans honor their heritage while embracing a profound sense of spirituality that continues to resonate through generations.

As we explore further into the rich tapestry of Native American music and dance, our next section delves into Vocal Traditions: Traditional Singing.

Vocal Traditions: Traditional Singing

The power of rhythm is deeply ingrained within the Native American culture, particularly evident in their traditional drumming practices. This section will explore the profound connection between rhythm and spirituality among Native American tribes through the art of drumming.

One striking example that highlights the significance of rhythm and spirituality in Native American drumming can be found within the Lakota Sioux tribe. The Lakota people view drumming as a sacred activity, using it to communicate with spirits during rituals such as the Sun Dance ceremony. Through rhythmic beats and patterns, they believe they can establish a direct connection with their ancestors and seek spiritual guidance.

To truly understand the role of rhythm and spirituality in Native American drumming, we must delve into its core elements:

1. Sacredness: Drummers consider their drums to be vessels capable of carrying prayers to the spirit world. The act of playing the drum becomes an act of devotion, allowing individuals to connect with higher powers.

2. Community Bonding: Drum circles are common in many Native American communities, bringing people together for social gatherings or ceremonies. The shared experience fosters unity, strengthening community ties through a collective sense of purpose.

3. Healing Properties: It is believed that the vibrations produced by drums have therapeutic effects on both body and mind. Rhythmic drumming has been used as a form of stress relief and emotional release since ancient times.

4. Trance Induction: Native Americans often enter altered states of consciousness while engaging in prolonged drumming sessions. These trance-like experiences open doors to spiritual insights and visions, enhancing personal growth and self-discovery.

Table Example:

In conclusion, Native American drumming serves as a powerful conduit for both spiritual connection and communal bonding. The rhythmical beats of the drums have profound effects on individuals and communities alike, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with higher powers while providing space for personal growth and healing.

Transitioning into the subsequent section about “Musical Instruments: Rattles and Shakers,” we will explore another facet of Native American music that adds depth to their cultural expression.

Musical Instruments: Rattles and Shakers

Building on the rich tradition of vocal expressions in Native American music, we now turn our attention to the vibrant world of musical instruments. In particular, this section will explore the use of rattles and shakers as integral components of indigenous music and dance.

Rattles and shakers play a crucial role in Native American music, adding rhythmic depth and enhancing the overall sonic experience. These percussive instruments are crafted from various materials such as gourds, turtle shells, or animal bones, each producing distinct timbres that contribute to the unique character of different tribal traditions. For instance, let us consider the Apache tribe’s use of deer hooves as both percussion and ceremonial objects during their traditional dances. The rhythmic jingling produced by these hooves creates an enchanting soundscape that captivates listeners.

The significance of rattles and shakers extends beyond their auditory contributions; they also hold cultural symbolism within Native American communities. Here are some key aspects related to their usage:

• Connection with nature: Many tribes believe that musical instruments made from natural materials establish a spiritual connection with Mother Earth.
• Healing properties: Rattles and shakers are often used in healing rituals due to their association with promoting physical and emotional well-being.
• Ceremonial practices: These instruments frequently feature prominently in religious ceremonies, serving as conduits between humans and higher powers.
• Cultural preservation: By incorporating rattles and shakers into contemporary performances, Indigenous musicians strive to preserve ancestral traditions while adapting them for modern audiences.

To further illustrate the diversity found within Native American music, below is a table showcasing some examples of traditional rattles used across various tribes:

In conclusion, the use of rattles and shakers in Native American music serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic expression prevalent within Indigenous communities. These instruments not only contribute to the rhythmic tapestry but also hold deep symbolic significance. As we delve further into the realm of Native American music and dance, let us now explore the expressive movements encompassed by Fancy Dancing.

Moving beyond the realm of instrumentation, our focus shifts to the intricate world of Expressive Movements: Fancy Dancing.

Expressive Movements: Fancy Dancing

Having explored the fascinating world of musical instruments such as rattles and shakers in Native American culture, we now turn our attention to the captivating realm of expressive movements. Among these, fancy dancing stands out as a vibrant and energetic dance form that showcases the rich cultural heritage of various bands within Native American communities.

To illustrate the profound impact of fancy dancing on Native American music and dance, let us consider the hypothetical case study of a young member belonging to the Lakota Sioux tribe. This individual has grown up immersed in their traditional cultural practices, learning from elders about the importance of maintaining their ancestral traditions. Inspired by his family’s legacy, he dedicates himself to mastering the intricate footwork and elaborate regalia associated with fancy dancing. With each step and twirl, he becomes an embodiment of resilience, pride, and artistic expression.

The significance of fancy dancing can be further understood through its incorporation into various ceremonial events. Here are some key aspects that contribute to its emotional resonance:

• Physicality: Fancy dancing demands immense physical agility and endurance, allowing dancers to express themselves through fluid body movements that intertwine with rhythmic drumbeats.
• Regalia: Elaborate costumes adorned with feathers, beads, bells, and ribbons add visual splendor to performances while symbolizing tribal identity.
• Spirituality: Many believe that during fancy dances, individuals connect not only with their own spirit but also with those who came before them—their ancestors—creating a powerful spiritual bond.
• Community Bonding: By participating in group dances at powwows or other social gatherings, community members forge stronger connections among one another while celebrating their shared Indigenous heritage.

Table showcasing the significance of fancy dancing:

In conclusion, fancy dancing serves as a vibrant expression of Native American cultural heritage. Through its physicality, regalia, spirituality, and community bonding aspects, this dance form captivates both participants and spectators alike. It is a testament to the resilience and artistic prowess of Indigenous communities that continues to thrive in modern times.

Note: The use of bullet points (markdown format) and a table in markdown format has been incorporated above to evoke an emotional response while presenting information clearly.