Sepass – Songs of Y-Ail Mihth CD

Translated from the oral tradition by Chief William K’HHalserten Sepass and Sophia White Street

Illustrated by Lynne Grillmair Produced by Longhouse Publishing – Ann Mohs

These stories, widely heard at the annual summer sun ceremonies and gatherings, were always told in the Coast Salish Language. Over four years (1911-1915), they were meticulously translated, recited and recorded, and transcribed in English, with the assistance of Sophia Jane White, the daughter of a Wesleyan Methodist missionary. Sophia had been raised with Halq’emeylem nannies, becoming fluent in the everyday language of these women. She understood the importance of adhering to the original rhythm and cadence of the 16 ancient songs.

1. The Beginning of the World
2. Xa:ls, The Sun God
3. Syewa:I, Mankind
4. Mexts’el, The Painter
5. Xa:ls Awakens
6. Sqayex, The Magician
7. Th’iqt, The Boaster
8. Th’ōwxiya, Cannibal Woman
9. Xpa:y, The Cedar & The Flood
10. Kw’i:sel Spath, The Grizzly Bear
11. Qw’a:tsay:lem, The Salmon Baby
12. Ts’xwaylhem the Q’ami, The Croon Maiden
13. The St/’aleqem, Lake Mystery
14. Syuwil, The Sorcerer
15. Slek’iyaP, the Coyote’s Son
16. O-ah-bitz, Child of the Sun

16 Tracks

1 hour