"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee National Youth Choir

"The 2007/2008 Cherokee National Youth Choir performs during the inaugural ceremony of
the Cherokee Nation's elected officials.".

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The melodic sounds of the Cherokee National Youth Choir has once again been nominated for a Native American Music Award (NAMMY).

“The youth choir shows the strength of Cherokee culture by continuing to sing our songs that have survived for hundreds of years,” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “We truly appreciate their talents, and it is good to see them get recognition on a national level.”

The Native American Music Awards honors and recognizes the musical achievements of Native American artists across the United States in over 30 awards categories. Established in 1998, it is one of the only national award shows in the world honoring Native American and Aboriginal music initiatives. The NAMMY award was born out of a need to provide greater opportunity and recognition for traditional and contemporary Native American musicians. It has become the one of the country’s leading sources for maintaining and promoting the songs of American Indians and their cultures.

“We are very excited about this year’s nomination,” said Kathy Sierra, youth choir coordinator. “We have been nominated every year and have won in the past. We feel really good about our chances of winning this year.”

Fans can go to Native American Music Awards (NAMMY) and vote online for their favorite Native American artists. The deadline to get votes in is October 6, 2007.

The Cherokee National Youth Choir performs traditional Cherokee songs in the Cherokee language. The choir came into existence from the vision of Principal Chief Chad Smith, who saw it as a way to keep children involved in the Cherokee language and culture. They function as an important symbol to the world, demonstrating that Cherokee language and culture continues to thrive in modern society.

“I’m so proud of each of these young men and women,” said Sierra. “It is the kids and their dedication to Cherokee culture that make the youth choir such a success. I would encourage each of you to get online and cast your vote.”

For more information about the Cherokee National Youth Choir call, 918-453-5618.