African American History Through Music

African American History Through Music

John Blake Jazz Ensemble

John Blake and his jazz quartet take students on an exciting journey exploring African American history through music during the initial assembly. The ensuing workshop sequence is led by John, who is both a passionate scholar of the roots of jazz and an innovative practitioner of this most American of all musical genres.

After identifying a group of dedicated instrumental students to participate, this core group of workshop students will study the evolution of jazz and how different styles of African American music have affected its development. Students explore music from the Slavery era to the Harlem Renaissance, and discuss the social, cultural and political significance of each subsequent musical style. During workshop sessions, students sing/and or play spirituals, work songs, blues, and famous jazz standards from the Harlem Renaissance period. They also learn about some of the legendary musicians and writers from these periods who have had a lasting impact on African American history. Songs that students will learn include, but are by no means limited to: Motherless Child, Take the A Train, music by Tommy Dorsey, and Signifyin’ Monkey.

After the program, students will be able to: 1) identify several styles of African American music from the Slavery period to the Harlem Renaissance; 2) explain the role these musical styles played in the lives of African Americans; 3) define the Harlem Renaissance and demonstrate familiarity with at least three musicians from the Harlem Renaissance period; 4) briefly explain the roots of gospel music; 5) construct their own definition of jazz; and 6) demonstrate more than one jazz style—either on an instrument or vocally.

This residency is appropriate for intermediate to advanced instrumentalists of middle-school age or older.

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