Daaga’ Funding Award Supports Music & Culture Week
Doyon, Limited was proud to award the Daaga’ funding award to support Music and Culture Week at Hughes School last year. The weeklong program brought music, dance, and cultural learning to students in grades K–12, creating lasting memories through rhythm, song, and movement.
Music instructors Miriah Phelps and Jay Mullen led the camp, guiding students through a daily schedule filled with music jams, games, dance, and instrument rotations.
Younger students in grades K–3 enjoyed morning music jams where they sang songs such as Koyukuk River (Cripple Creek), Keep on the Sunny Side, and Eagle Island Blues. They practiced chords, strumming, and even created their own spring-themed version of Hey Ho Nobody Home. The sessions also included fun elements like “rock and roll” endings, chord groupings for Three Little Birds, and a special rendition of “Happy Birthday” sung in Koyukon.
Dance and movement were highlights of the mornings, with the stuffed animal dance becoming a favorite among the younger students. Other activities, such as Snowball Stop and Clap, kept energy levels high while encouraging teamwork.
During instrument rotations, students had the chance to explore fiddles, guitars, keyboards, and ukuleles. They learned the basics of rhythm, chords, and playing techniques, with a focus on making music together.
Afternoons were dedicated to grades 4–12, where students dove deeper into music theory, discussing the difference between rhythm and melody as well as major and minor chords. Although reluctant at first, older students warmed up to singing and worked through classics like Stay All Night and Eagle Island Blues.
A highlight came when students requested to learn Metallica. The group settled on Enter Sandman, which gave everyone an opportunity to experiment with different instruments, including guitar, fiddle, keys, and ukulele. From power chords to melodic riffs, each student contributed to the full-band sound.
Dance sessions added variety, with mixers and traditional games like Fox Chase Rabbit, while musical chairs provided a lively connection between students and the live band.
By the end of the program, students of all ages had explored new instruments, learned songs spanning cultural traditions and modern favorites, and built confidence through music.
Doyon thanks Hughes School, its instructors, and its students for embracing the joy of music and culture. Through the Daaga’ funding award, this program showcased the importance of healthy, clean, and sober Alaska Native communities — values that continue to strengthen our people.
The Daaga’ Award can be applied for year-round at www.doyon.com/shareholders/funding/.
