This beautiful Zuni song was written down by Carlos Troyer (1837-1920) after witnessing the Zuni Sunset Ceremony on his first visit to the Zuni people.
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"At the instance of the sun touching the boarder of the horizon at sunset, the Zunis assembled upon the highest cliffs and housetops to sing their Song of Praise.
They face the sun with uplifted hands (palms outwards) and bow with graceful rhythmic motion - upward and downward at every measure of the song in the manner of a "Salaam" which they repeat continuously, until the sun sinks out of sight. The chant takes about one minute to sing and the Sun-worshippers sing it five times, which is the limit the sun occupies in its downward course after its first contact with the horizon.
During the first four repetitions of the song, the worshippers remain standing; in the last repetition, they are kneeling (on one knee); and in the final, prostrate themselves towards the sun, in silence."
-Carlos Troyer

The song is also a perfect example of the ‘variations on a theme’ style of creating a song. In the beginning phrase of the song, or section of the song, a theme is stated. The phrases that follow are some variation - either rhythmic, melodic or both - of that original phrase.

As I walk you through the phrases of the song I’ll point out how this style has been used to create the song. Hopefully, by the end of the video you will be well on your way to playing a new beautiful song, have some new note combinations to ponder, and better understand how the variations on a theme style can be used to create a song.


The Native American Style Flute is one of the easiest instruments to learn to play, no previous musical experience is necessary. The rich heartfelt melodies of the flute speak to many of us in a way that no other music does. It touches our soul and takes us home. At High Spirits our mission is to connect people to these beautiful instruments and to give you all the support we can to help you on your musical journey. To learn more about the Native American Style Flute go to:
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And to find the flute that is right for you go to:
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