Today, we present some highlights of the Sámi culture, an indigenous culture present in the northernmost Nordic countries and the Kola Peninsula within the Murmansk Oblast of Russia. Traditionally, the bond between the Sámi and the natural land has been profound and sacred. They have historically lived their lives in accordance with nature. Deeply grounded in the understanding that from the earth

Today, we visit Oceania to learn about the Māori Tūhoe. New Zealand is a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises two main islands, namely, the North Island and South Island plus about 600 other smaller islands. The nation has a population of about 5 million, of which the majority are of European descent, with the Māori forming the most significant minority and then followed

Welcome to our program, “Bartering – Exchanging Goods, Services and Friendship.” Bartering was a system of trade introduced by the Mesopotamia tribes dating back to 6,000 BC. The Phoenicians adopted the system to trade goods with other cities across the oceans. An improved bartering system was developed by the Babylonians and was used to exchange goods for food, tea, spices, and other commodities.

Since ancient times, humans have expressed their love and longing for God through singing and music. These holy songs connect us with the Divine and remind us of our heavenly Home. Russia is a multi-continental country stretching from Eastern Europe to Northern Asia and spanning eleven time zones, it is the largest country in the world by area. Russian Orthodoxy has been the main religion for a mi

Germany stretches across Western and Central Europe, covering about 357,000 square kilometers and shares its borders with nine other European countries. With a population of more than 80 million people, Germany is the second-most populous state in Europe after Russia. Germany’s economy is the fifth-largest in the world, and the German approach is considered a role model for other nations to follow

Today, we are going to travel to a quintessential tropical island paradise with balmy breezes to learn about an indigenous people whose ancestors came to this beautiful archipelago around 3,500 years ago. Fiji is truly spectacular and features white sand beaches, turquoise oceans, palm trees and fertile land. It’s no wonder the ocean-faring Melanesians, called the Lapita, who found their way to th

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is celebrated on August 9 annually, in recognition of the first meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations that took place in 1982. On this day, the United Nations reminds us of the Native people’s contributions to the world. Globally, we honor their precious efforts to preserve and protect the planet for generation

“The advantage of the Moon Lute is in its performance techniques including loud, soft, long, short notes, and fluttering and snapping sounds with significant depth. When playing the Moon Lute, we have to be dedicated, and make an effort to find its unique features. Otherwise, if we just play it casually, then we can’t make use of all the features of the instrument.” “When the Moon Lute is played,

Today, we will take you to Âu Lạc (Vietnam), to explore and enjoy the poetic and alluring beauty of the Moon Lute, a folk musical instrument classified as one of the national treasures of this beautiful country. The Moon Lute has other names such as “Kìm” Lute, Double-stringed Lute or Gentleman Lute. From its moon-shaped body, it was named the Moon Lute. The Moon Lute came to Âu Lạc during the Lý

During our time together, we will learn about a resourceful group of individuals in Western Canada called the Heiltsuk. Most of the Heiltsuk today live in the village of Bella Bella. The Heiltsuk have a well-defined code of ethics and morality, which has historically been taught through their oral tradition, music, dance, and artwork. The word Heiltsuk literally means “to speak or act correctly,”

The word Ainu means human in the Ainu language. Ainu mainly reside on Japan’s Hokkaido Island, with a very small number living in Russia. The traditional dress is comprised of a robe covered with geometric patterns. Genetic studies certainly reveal a fascinating picture of the Ainu people’s ancestry. It is thought that the Ainu are descendants of the Jōmon people whose culture flourished between 1

Located in Southeast Asia, the Kingdom of Thailand, formerly known as Siam, is a country steeped in rich cultural traditions. The name “Thailand” means “land of the free.” In this auspicious nation, one of the earliest signs of human existence was found. Through the centuries, the influence of neighboring countries such as India, China, and Cambodia have helped shape Thailand’s diverse and colorfu

The Dorze live in the Gamo Highlands of Southern Ethiopia and have a population of about 30,000. Living approximately 2,600 meters above sea level, this hospitable community is renowned for its creative members who are skillful cotton weavers and builders. The Dorze are famous for the architectural design and construction of their homes. The residences are 6 – 12 meters high and are made in the sh

In today’s show, we will explore the history, culture, and natural wonders of Bermuda. Located in the North Atlantic off the east coast of North America, Bermuda is the oldest British colony. The water at beaches in Bermuda is always crystal-clear year round, making it a perfect relaxing destination for holiday vacations. Bermuda has a population of about 63,000 people, inheriting colorful culture

Our program today will feature Hindu songs composed and performed by Mr. Ramanathan Brahmanandam, a respected Hindu scholar and musician. He is also a compassionate vegetarian, who practices ahimsa (nonviolence) to aid his own Self-realization. Apart from being a distinguished scholar of Hinduism, Mr. Brahmanandam is also well-versed in the classical music tradition of South India. He composes and

As mentioned in the previous episode, Hawaiian mythologies, history, genealogies, and traditions were passed down from generation to generation through chant, or “oli,” and accompanying dance called “hula.” Today we are honored to have on our show Kumu Hula (master hula teacher) and choreographer, Ms. Nawahine Kuraoka. Ms. Kuraoka is here to share with us her knowledge of the beautiful hula dance.

The hula dance is an integral part of Hawaiian culture, and dates back 1,500 years ago, when the ancient Polynesians voyaged to Hawaii. In ancient Hawaii, there were different dances for various occasions. One of the rules in Hula dancing is “Kuhi no ka lima, hele no ka maka” or “Where the hands move, there let the eyes follow.” In other words, a dancer should always watch their hands at all times

Also known as the alpenhorn or alpine horn, the alphorn is a traditional wooden wind instrument that delivers natural tones. Historically it is known as a means of communication among shepherds, who often play it in the evening to call their cows to return home, as its resonating sound can travel for miles, ushering in the falling dusk. The instrument has no lateral openings, making the sound it p

The Mongolian people are devout spiritual seekers. Their sincerity in searching for spiritual elevation is expressed through many songs that praise and worship the Divine. Today, we would like to introduce three of these sacred songs. The first, “Khelkhee Ayalguu,” is a folk song that was performed by M. Saruultugs of the Erdenet Ensemble at the 2nd International Artist Day Celebration concert, “A

EI Salvador is in Central America and has the Pacific Ocean to the west, Guatemala to the north, and Honduras to the east. The Pipil people, who are the predominant indigenous group in the country, refer to their territory in Western EI Salvador as Cuscatlán, meaning “The Place of Jewel Necklaces.” Anyone who has ever had the opportunity to visit this exquisite nation will agree that it is a land