Vision Quest

Native American flavored jazz fusion

What is a Vision Quest?

Traditionally, in some Native American cultures, a vision quest is a rite of passage, usually undertaken by young males entering adulthood. The process includes a complete fast for four days and nights, alone at a sacred site deep in nature. During this time, the young person prays and cries out to the spirits that they may have a vision, one that will help them find their purpose in life, their role in a community, and how they may best serve the People. Source: Wikipedia

Sadly the concept has been usurped and commercialized by non-Native Americans. New Age knock-offs include versions of a sweat lodge, which has often led to untrained people causing harm and even death.

About the Music:

This tune features both the Native American flute and the trombone. The form is INTRO-A-B-A-B-C-D-Outro where A and B feature the Native American flute and the trombone enters at C.

Metaphorically:

• A represents the uncertainty in the quest's search (solemn and apprehensive);
• B the goal or target (a fleeting hint of the vision);
• C and D represents finding fulfillment in reaching the intended target (the vision is revealed);
• The Outro combines elements of A and B in a more triumphant tone and represents returning home and balancing the quest's vision in daily life.

Thanks to the site freesound.org for the wonderfully deep frame drum and the attention-grabbing sound in the intro.

Related Info

• Vision Quest (The Canadian Encyclopedia)
• Native American Spirituality (Brittany Chavers)