Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will have a basic understanding of the history of jazz music and be able to recognize some key elements of jazz music.
Materials and Prep
- Computer or tablet with internet access
- Paper and colored pencils
- Quiet space for listening to music
- No prior knowledge needed, just come with an open mind and eagerness to learn!
Activities
- Jazz Music Listening: Listen to famous jazz songs like Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World" and Duke Ellington's "Take the A Train". Pay attention to the instruments and rhythms you hear.
- Jazz Dance Party: Move and groove to some upbeat jazz music. Try to feel the swing rhythm in your body as you dance!
- Jazz Music Coloring: While listening to a jazz song, draw or color what you feel the music looks like. Use different colors and shapes to represent the sounds you hear.
Talking Points
- What is jazz music?
"Jazz music is a fun and lively type of music that often involves improvisation, where musicians make up the music as they play!" - Where did jazz music come from?
"Jazz music originated in the United States, particularly in New Orleans. It has roots in African music traditions and has evolved over time." - What are some common instruments in jazz?
"In jazz, you can hear instruments like the trumpet, saxophone, piano, drums, and double bass. Each instrument adds a unique sound to the music!" - Why is jazz music important?
"Jazz music is important because it has influenced many other music genres and has a rich history of cultural expression. It's a music style that celebrates creativity and individuality!"