There are  two main purposes for the CD.  One, it is to be played at wakes, funerals, and memorials with the hope that the CD will provide comfort, encouragement, and spiritual strength for those who are  in mourning.  For those Dakota individuals who grew up with these Dakota hymns, either from the Presbyterian or the Episcopalian Hymnals, or both,  these hymns are memories.  They are memories of certain places, or at certain times, or of the loved ones who have passed into the spirit world.  For example, p. 97 of the Episcopalian hymnal, “Sweet Bye and Bye” (which is on the CD), always reminds me of my father, Chris Cavender Sr.  This was one of his favorite hymns and it was sung at his graveside.

Two, it is to be used as one of many teaching tools/helps in revitalizing the Dakota language, which is in crisis.  For example, in my community, Yellow Medicine Community, there are only six (6) speakers left in a population of approximately 450 individuals (this is about one percent, or 1%).  I have tried to pronounce (articulate) the words as clearly as I can so that it will be helpful in the teaching of and in the revitalization process.

I have titled the Compact Disc, “Mato Nunpa Ic’icidowan,”  that is “Mato Nunpa Sings With Himself.”  The reason for this title is that I sing all four parts:  the melody (or lead), the tenor, the baritone, and the bass.

Also, I wish to thank Gordon Bird and his wife, Joanne, who encouraged me to do this project and who, also, helped me considerably.  In fact, I don’t think this CD would have materialized without them.  So, I thank them very much!

This has been a labor of love.  Although the CD project cost me close to $3,000, I am giving it free to each Dakota person who wants one.  Also, I am giving it, free of charge, to those non-Dakota individuals who are interested in the CD.  In September 2009, I will be 69 winters.  So, this is a legacy which I leave for the Dakota People of Minnesota.  I want them to say, after I am gone, “Mato Nunpa sang these hymns, and wanted the Dakota Language to live.”

Chris Mato Nunpa Dakota, Wahpetunwan, “Dwellers In the Leaves”

Member, Pezihuta Zizi Otunwe,  Can Kaga Otida, “Loghouse Dwellers” (My Ospaye, or kinship unit, or clan)

“Yellow Medicine Community”

(BIA terms, Upper Sioux Community)