Ethnography in-sight: Amasonic politics

Abstract

The photo captured in 2018 during a one-week stopover on a trip between two Central Rainforest regions of Peru is the point of departure for a reflection on the use of sound by Asháninka, Nomatsiguenga, and other rainforest peoples for “Amasonic” politics. A wide span of genres ranging from autochthonous songs produced by ensembles playing percussions and pan-flutes to school bands performing military marches is key when rainforest peoples exert pressure in the provincial capital to obtain land titles and other rights. Asháninka and Nomatsiguenga leaders also create soundscapes pervaded by politics at local gatherings to consume manioc beer and ally with supporters to enhance their demands. Disputes take place within these shared soundscapes, as evidenced by a Mother's Day celebrations at which Indigenous and nonindigenous school teachers chose diverging music and dances for their grades to perform because of disagreement about what is essential for the Peruvian repertoire.