Themusic of the Marshall Islands has a long history. TheMarshall Islands are an independent island chain, geographically and culturally part of theMicronesian area. It was part of theTrust Territory of the Pacific Islands, governed by theUnited States, until independence in 1986.
Theroro is a kind of traditionalchant, usually about ancient legends and performed to give guidance during navigation and strength for mothers in labor. Modern bands have blended the unique songs of each island in the country with modern music.
Thoughdrums are not generally common inMicronesian music, one-sided hourglass-shaped drums are a major part of Marshallese music.[1]
Thenational anthem of the Marshall Islands is "Forever Marshall Islands", whichAmata Kabua wrote the lyrics for.
There is a traditional Marshallese dance calledbeet, which is influenced by Spanish folk dances. In it, men and women side-step in parallel lines, creating a very difficult and complex rhythm. There is a kind of "stick dance" performed by theJobwa, nowadays only for very special occasions.
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