The music of the Andean Altiplano, or Andean highlands, is distinctive and hauntingly beautiful. It has the longest music tradition in Latin America, dating back to the Inca Empire. The breathy sound of sikus (panpipes) playing syncopated, simply-harmonized melodies backed with pulsating drum beats captures the attention of listeners. The role of music is highly regarded; many members of the community join in the music-making by playing, dancing, and singing. Contrary to the emphasis on the individual in the United States today, Aymara communities have developed a strong sense of cooperation. Both economically and socially, the individual is expected to be a supportive member of the whole rather than to stand out as an individual.