Albert Tenaya,
Native American Singer/Songwriter/
Storyteller, of the Ahwahneeche band of the Yosemite Valley
California Paiutes
an interview and CD review by
 Nancy J. Reid

Albert Tenaya has a rare talent--he is a master storyteller. Using only a few words--he conveys emotion through simple melody lines, dynamics and a voice that compels you to sit back and really listen. Even listening is not enough. Albert's vocals, guitar, flute playing and arrangements are like strands that stand alone, eventually weaving themselves together to evoke a feeling in the listener. He successfully brings his Native American heritage to life and shares it with you in a very personal way. He in fact, feels his work here on earth, is as a messenger to help bring cultures together. (Photo above: Albert performing at the “Summer of Love" in San Francisco. Albert and his wife Maryvel were the first act after the Indian Blessing for the event. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the "Summer of Love", this year’s theme was called "A Gathering of the Tribes" as it was the original theme name in 1967).

In his first CD "Medicine Water Flute Songs," Albert pays tribute to our most "sacred resource", water. Listening to the first track titled "Calling All Waters", one can sit back, relax, and "see" bodies of water gently flowing--reminding us of how important it is that we conserve, protect and respect this beautiful and necessary element in nature. My own experience listening to this track made me feel Albert was calling on all bodies of water to ask for forgiveness for mankind's trespasses and to thank this resource for being here for mankind since the beginning of time. I am sure each listener will feel something and have their own interpretation. All the songs on this CD celebrate water and leave the listener with a sense of peace.

To view photos of Albert Tenaya, taken by Maryvel Tenaya, set to "Calling All Waters" from Albert's CD,  please click here. All scenic photos were taken in the western United States by The Big Blend photographer, Lisa D. Smith.


The second CD released by Albert Tenaya is called Warrior Dancer. This is a collection of stories handed down to him by his Grandmother. Albert sings of sage and his grandmother's wisdom; women crying to the moon during a capture of his people; a warrior dance; a father's loss; a dedication to his elders; reflections; about the relationship his people have with the buffalo; and about a hoop dancer. (Photo by Henry Hawkins)

Tenaya is a descendent of the Bear Clan of the Yosemite Valley Indian Ahwahneeche Band of Paiutes. In an interview in August 2007, with Albert and his wife Maryvel, he speaks of the history of his family, the capture of his Great-Great Grandmother and the refusal of his Great-Great Grandfather Chief Tenaya,  to sign a treaty with the United States government.  To listen, please double click on the Play button below.

We interviewed Albert Tenaya again on March 16, 2008, as part of our online radio show, Champagne Sundays, in our Special Music and Entertainment Show. To hear the entire, unedited show, click here. To listen to that interview, please double click on the Play button below.

To hear the closing song of the show, please double click on the Play button below.