One way the Cahuilla People are able to teach the Cahuilla language to the younger generation is through the traditional “bird songs.” Sung in Cahuilla, bird songs tell stories of the origin of the Cahuilla People and their travels in ancient times. These songs are passed down from generation to generation. They are referred to as “bird songs” because often the stories are told from the perspective of birds. They are typically sung for special occasions and are considered social songs. Anyone can sing them, men or women, the young or the elderly. They are not like special ritual songs that can be sung only by certain individuals.
Many songs tell of the journey of the Cahuilla People and their return home. According to Cahuilla legend, life began in the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountains when the Cahuilla People were created by their god, Mukat. When Mukat died turmoil erupted. The Cahuilla People were dispersed, they left the Valley and went far far away. Some believe they went as far away as South America. Bird songs tell of the story of their journey and return home.
