Grade Seven Music
Throughout junior high school students will evolve music skills through three different levels, with a focus on five program goals: skill development, individual and group performance, appreciation of a variety of music, self-expression, and the history of music.
Children’s experiences shape what they imagine to be possible. Study after study has shown the value of exposing children with positive role models. Representation, including in the hours spent consuming media within the classroom, shape what they imagine to be possible for people who look like them, live where they live, or come from where they came from. Simply put, kids determine what they can be based on the examples around them. Therefore, we highly recommend you take 2-5 minutes everyday in your music class to introduce musicians of colour or cultural instruments. We've made this easy for you by creating a presentation that you can use with a slide a day to showcase a new musicians/instrument of diverse background. You could do this on a daily, weekly, bi-weekly or during a certain month. You could also make your own presentation and encourage this representation.
7 - 12 Musicians of Colour by Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation
Level I
How James Brown Invented Funk
An 8-minute PBS video breaking down the rhythm, vocal qualities, and other musical elements of funk, and James Brown's influence on hip hop.
How James Brown Invented Funk
An 8-minute PBS video breaking down the rhythm, vocal qualities, and other musical elements of funk, and James Brown's influence on hip hop.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 2.2: Composing music - Suggested use:
- Elements of music - vocal sounds
- Influence on a number of genres such as funk and hip hop
- History of music genres project
- Artist/musician biography project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
She Sings the Blues: Jamming With the Legendary Beverly Watkins
Interview with Beverly Watkins, and short history on her blues career.
Interview with Beverly Watkins, and short history on her blues career.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Black female blues guitarist
- Listening example
- Historical context and connections to Jazz - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
How A Tribe Called Red Created Electric Powwow Music
A 15-minute PBS video about A Tribe Called Red, Indigenous DJs in Canada and how they blend traditional sound and electronic music.
A 15-minute PBS video about A Tribe Called Red, Indigenous DJs in Canada and how they blend traditional sound and electronic music.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.6: Music of Canada - Suggested use:
- Introduction for Indigenous Canadian artists unit
- Canadian artist to include when discussing electronic music
- Connections between Indigenous communities and their path to becoming musicians - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
Where is the Funk? How Prince Created the Minneapolis Sound
A 10-minute video on the history of Minneapolis Sound in the 80s and 90s. Jellybean Johnson highlights the musical elements of the genre.
A 10-minute video on the history of Minneapolis Sound in the 80s and 90s. Jellybean Johnson highlights the musical elements of the genre.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- History of funk music - electro-funk music
- Artist examples
- Influences in modern day music - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
Duke Ellington - Pianist & Songwriter
Video showcasing a brief biography of Duke Ellington.
Video showcasing a brief biography of Duke Ellington.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Careers in music
- 1.2: Black music
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Use as an introduction to a jazz unit
- Discussion on Ellington's legacy in music
- Use as a resource for a research unit on Black musicians - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
Louis Armstrong: Broke Down Barriers for African American Artists
Video showcasing a brief biography of Louis Armstrong.
Video showcasing a brief biography of Louis Armstrong.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Careers in music
- 1.2: Black music
- Program goals: 3, 5 - Suggested use:
- Use as an introduction to a jazz unit
- Discussion on Armstrong's legacy in jazz music
- Use as a resource for a research unit on Black musicians - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Ella Fitzgerald
Biography of Ella Fitzgerald.
Biography of Ella Fitzgerald.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- 1.2: Black music
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Use as an introduction to a jazz unit
- Discussion on Fitzgerald's legacy in music
- Use as a resource for a research unit in musicians - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
Prince: Mini Biography
Short video showcasing a brief biography of Prince.
Short video showcasing a brief biography of Prince.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- 1.2: Black music
- Program goals: 3, 5 - Suggested use:
- An artist to highlight for music genres that evolved from jazz genre in the 20th century
- Use as a resource for a research unit in musicians - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Tanya Tagaq- The sounds of throat singing
Tanya Tagaq, an Inuk Canadian throat singer, explains how to manipulate your voice to make the sounds of throat singing.
Tanya Tagaq, an Inuk Canadian throat singer, explains how to manipulate your voice to make the sounds of throat singing.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 2.6: Music of Canada
- Program goals: 1, 3, 4 - Suggested use:
- Example of vocal uses in different cultures
- Highlight a Canadian Indigenous artist - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Chicago Footwork: Music and Dance at a Whole New Speed
Features RP Boo explaining the musical components and dance components of the musical genre footwork.
Features RP Boo explaining the musical components and dance components of the musical genre footwork.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.8: Musical Theatre - Suggested use:
- Connections to electronic music, cross curricular connections with dance
- What is the purpose of electronic music? How can it be used?
- Different components of electronic music - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Blind Musician Preserving America's Original Black Music
Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton is a musician bringing back the magic of a bygone era of American jazz. Drawing inspiration from the blues scene of the 1930s, Paxton has become a master of forgotten music, transporting his audiences to another time.
Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton is a musician bringing back the magic of a bygone era of American jazz. Drawing inspiration from the blues scene of the 1930s, Paxton has become a master of forgotten music, transporting his audiences to another time.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Listening and artist example for American jazz from the 1930s
- Black banjo music listening example - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Jazz Ambassadors: Louis Armstrong and the Civil Rights Movement
A 5-minute video on Louis Armstrong's role in the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. From "The Jazz Ambassadors" series. Website includes support materials such as discussion questions, background questions, and teaching tips.
A 5-minute video on Louis Armstrong's role in the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. From "The Jazz Ambassadors" series. Website includes support materials such as discussion questions, background questions, and teaching tips.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Material to focus specifically on Louis Armstrong in jazz artists or history unit
- Connections between how the Jazz genre evolved with the Civil Rights Movement - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Nina Simone's 'Lovely, Precious Dream' For Black Children
Article on how Nina Simone's song "To Be Young, Gifted and Black" became an American anthem. She wrote the song to "inspire black children to feel good about themselves forever". Includes 7-minute audio clip on her history, and how the song is relevant today.
Article on how Nina Simone's song "To Be Young, Gifted and Black" became an American anthem. She wrote the song to "inspire black children to feel good about themselves forever". Includes 7-minute audio clip on her history, and how the song is relevant today.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
'I Will Survive' Saves Marginalized People A Spot On The Dance Floor
A 7-minute audio clip and article on Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive". Exploration of how the song describes Gloria's personal struggles and then how the song became anthem for the LGBT community during the AIDs crisis.
A 7-minute audio clip and article on Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive". Exploration of how the song describes Gloria's personal struggles and then how the song became anthem for the LGBT community during the AIDs crisis.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
Both Party And Protest, 'Alright' Is The Sound Of Black Life's Duality
A 7-minute audio clip and article exploring how Kendrick Lamar's song of celebration transformed into a rallying cry and affirmation in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement.
A 7-minute audio clip and article exploring how Kendrick Lamar's song of celebration transformed into a rallying cry and affirmation in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
‘They Say My Music’s Too Loud’: Chuck D and Ernie Isley ‘Fight The Power'
15-minute discussion between Ernie Isley of The Isley Brothers and Chuck D from Public Enemy on their respective versions of "Fight the Power". The songs both are important American anthems in their times.
15-minute discussion between Ernie Isley of The Isley Brothers and Chuck D from Public Enemy on their respective versions of "Fight the Power". The songs both are important American anthems in their times.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
How The 'New World' Symphony Introduced American Music To Itself
Dvorak, a famous Czech composer and immigrant to the US, was inspired by Black spirituals in writing his "New World" symphony. His assistant Harry Burleigh, a self-taught baritone, greatly influenced his understanding of American music. He declared that American music is founded upon African-American music, and is also its future. Additional resource for more information.
Dvorak, a famous Czech composer and immigrant to the US, was inspired by Black spirituals in writing his "New World" symphony. His assistant Harry Burleigh, a self-taught baritone, greatly influenced his understanding of American music. He declared that American music is founded upon African-American music, and is also its future. Additional resource for more information.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Connections between European classical music and Black American music
- Can be used when learning about Dvorak and classical music composers - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
'We're A Winner' Married Black Pride To An Irresistible Beat
A 7-minute audio clip and article exploring the impact of The Impressions' "We're a Winner" as an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King's message.
A 7-minute audio clip and article exploring the impact of The Impressions' "We're a Winner" as an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King's message.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
Till Victory Is Won: The Staying Power Of 'Lift Every Voice And Sing'
A 7-minute audio clip and article on what is deemed the "black national anthem", "Lift Every Voice and Sing". Explores the history of the song, and how artists today like Beyonce continue to sing it in their performances.
A 7-minute audio clip and article on what is deemed the "black national anthem", "Lift Every Voice and Sing". Explores the history of the song, and how artists today like Beyonce continue to sing it in their performances.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
The Genius of Charlie Parker
This 11-minute PBS video follows the legendary Charlie Parker and the birth and history of bebop as a sub-genre of jazz.
This 11-minute PBS video follows the legendary Charlie Parker and the birth and history of bebop as a sub-genre of jazz.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Material to focus specifically on Charlie Parker in jazz artists or history unit
- Connections between how the Jazz genre evolved with the Civil Rights Movement
- Learning about Bebop as a Jazz sub-genre - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Who Was Buddy Bolden?
A 2-minute video that briefly explains who Buddy Bolden is and how he contributed to the birth of Jazz.
A 2-minute video that briefly explains who Buddy Bolden is and how he contributed to the birth of Jazz.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Jazz artist example
- Jazz history
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- No captions; additional accommodations required for hard of hearing students
The Birth of Hip Hop
A 3-minute video explaining the origins of Hip Hop, its significance and how the artist DJ Kool Herc played a crucial role in introducing this new genre to the masses.
A 3-minute video explaining the origins of Hip Hop, its significance and how the artist DJ Kool Herc played a crucial role in introducing this new genre to the masses.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Information on history and origins of Hip Hop music - Accessibility:
- Captioned by creator
The Woman who Invented Rock and Roll
A 10-minute video outlining Sister Rosetta Tharpe's influence on rock and roll, her life and her legacy.
A 10-minute video outlining Sister Rosetta Tharpe's influence on rock and roll, her life and her legacy.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: The beginning of rock music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Introduction of the "godmother" of Rock and Roll
- Historical context of Rock and Roll
- Elements of music in artist's music
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Cab Calloway: The Original Frontman
A 10-minute video explaining the role of the frontman when performing live music, and how Cab Calloway masterfully used call-and-response in his songs like "Hi-De-Hi-De-Ho".
A 10-minute video explaining the role of the frontman when performing live music, and how Cab Calloway masterfully used call-and-response in his songs like "Hi-De-Hi-De-Ho".
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- History and music of Cab Calloway
- Vocal music elements: call and response, scat singing
- Connections to US history and how the jazz genre evolves - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Get to know Miles Davis
A 2-minute video explaining brief facts about one of the major influencers on Jazz music in the 1940s, African-American, Miles Davis.
A 2-minute video explaining brief facts about one of the major influencers on Jazz music in the 1940s, African-American, Miles Davis.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Jazz artist example; information on Miles Davis
- Jazz history
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- Captioned by creator
Jacob Banks Reveals How A Burglary Shaped His Music Career
Despite having plans to study civil engineering, 26-year-old Jacob Banks got into music nine years ago and has since turned heads for his striking blend of electronic beats and old-school blues. One of his most popular and most moving songs is titled "Slow Up."
Despite having plans to study civil engineering, 26-year-old Jacob Banks got into music nine years ago and has since turned heads for his striking blend of electronic beats and old-school blues. One of his most popular and most moving songs is titled "Slow Up."
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Careers in music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Fusion of electronic music and sold school blues
- Artist example
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Understanding Frank Ocean
This ten-minute video explains the life and musical career of Frank Ocean. Additional video on Frank Ocean's method of lyrical storytelling.
This ten-minute video explains the life and musical career of Frank Ocean. Additional video on Frank Ocean's method of lyrical storytelling.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Suggested use:
- Artist example and biography information
- Hip hop and R&B - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
FOX feature on Rissi Palmer
Rissi Palmer is a country music artist, who charted her debut song on the country charts in 2007, becoming the first Black woman to do so since 1987.
Rissi Palmer is a country music artist, who charted her debut song on the country charts in 2007, becoming the first Black woman to do so since 1987.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- Suggested use:
- Artist example for country music - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Level II
Saving an Ancient Language Through Pop Music
Renata Flores is a 16-year-old singer from Peru who is using her voice to save an ancient language, Qechua, by covering popular pop songs.
Saving an Ancient Language Through Pop Music
Renata Flores is a 16-year-old singer from Peru who is using her voice to save an ancient language, Qechua, by covering popular pop songs.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 2.2: Composing music - Suggested use:
- Listening example for vocal sounds module
- Example of purpose of composing music/why we compose music/what purpose can it serve - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
60 Years of Indigenous Music Game Changers Musicians
Interactive timeline from the 1960s to the 2010s on prominent Indigenous musicians in Canada and how they've changed history.
Interactive timeline from the 1960s to the 2010s on prominent Indigenous musicians in Canada and how they've changed history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.6: Music of Canada - Suggested use:
- Timeline of a variety of Indigenous musicians of Turtle Island - artist research project
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
A Tribe Called Red Wins 2014 Juno for Breakthrough Group of the Year Musicians
Video showcasing electronic group A Tribe Called Red, the first Indigenous group to win the Breakthrough Group of the Year award. The group speaks about their experience and what it meant to them.
Video showcasing electronic group A Tribe Called Red, the first Indigenous group to win the Breakthrough Group of the Year award. The group speaks about their experience and what it meant to them.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Careers in music
- 2.6: Music of Canada
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Introduction for Indigenous Canadian artists unit
- Canadian artist to include when discussing electronic music
- Connections between Indigenous communities and their path to becoming musicians - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Visually impaired students may benefit from descriptions
- Additional accommodations may be needed for hard of hearing students
Buffy Sainte-Marie perform 'Fancy Dancer'
Buffy Sainte-Marie performs Fancy Dancer in this video as facts about her career are shown in text. She used the power of her distinct music, coined as "disco powow" for social activism.
Buffy Sainte-Marie performs Fancy Dancer in this video as facts about her career are shown in text. She used the power of her distinct music, coined as "disco powow" for social activism.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.6: Music of Canada
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Example of vocal use in different genres
- Music expression
- Listening example for Elements of Music - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
A History of Black Classical Musicians
Newsletter highlighting major achievements and the history of black classical composers. A visual timeline is also available.
Newsletter highlighting major achievements and the history of black classical composers. A visual timeline is also available.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 2.1: Careers in music
- Program goals: 3, 5 - Suggested use:
- Supplement with a classical music unit
- Use as a resource for a research unit in composers
- Discussion on achievements of some of the composers
- Compare achievements of composers to the composers traditionally learned in Western society - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Inside the Junos: why Rascalz refused their 1998 award
Audio clip and article included. This is the story of how Rascalz snubbed the Junos — the first group to ever do that — and how they launched a conversation about change, as rap was often relegated to the sidelines.
Audio clip and article included. This is the story of how Rascalz snubbed the Junos — the first group to ever do that — and how they launched a conversation about change, as rap was often relegated to the sidelines.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- Program goals: 3, 5 - Suggested use:
- Exploring rap as a vocal form
- Canadian music history - Accessibility:
- Short summary of audio available at resource
Edmonton's nêhiyawak explores intersection between contemporary indie-rock and Cree culture
Spotlight on nêhiyawak, an Indie-rock band from Edmonton and their take on culture, community and electronic music.
Spotlight on nêhiyawak, an Indie-rock band from Edmonton and their take on culture, community and electronic music.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Composing music
- 2.6: Music of Canada
- Program goals: 1, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Canadian artist example for electronic music module
- Genres that emerged from the rock and roll genre - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired
Oscar Peterson performs Canadian Suite
Video of one of Oscar Peterson's performances, along with subtitles describing his musical history in Canada.
Video of one of Oscar Peterson's performances, along with subtitles describing his musical history in Canada.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 2.6: Music of Canada
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Canadian artist to highlight when teaching jazz
- Musician autobiography projects - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
From to Mariachi to Ska Punk, This Is Latin Music Today
Features 4 people/groups on how they adapted Latin American music to today. Includes a DJ, a female mariachi band, and ska punk scene.
Features 4 people/groups on how they adapted Latin American music to today. Includes a DJ, a female mariachi band, and ska punk scene.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Evolution of Latin music
- Electronic music fusion - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Band Bringing Venezuela’s Best Dance Party to the World
El Clavo is a small village in Venezuela with a proud musical heritage. There, Betsayda Machado and other Afro-Venezuelans continue a cultural tradition known as “parranda.”
El Clavo is a small village in Venezuela with a proud musical heritage. There, Betsayda Machado and other Afro-Venezuelans continue a cultural tradition known as “parranda.”
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Cultural significance of music in Latin America
- Instruments and vocal sounds that can be found in Latin American music
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Reinvention of Drezus
Drezus is a First Nations rapper who combines the traditions of his culture with hip hop. He speaks about how hip hop became his voice and on representation. Note: Mention of drug use and violence.
Drezus is a First Nations rapper who combines the traditions of his culture with hip hop. He speaks about how hip hop became his voice and on representation. Note: Mention of drug use and violence.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1: Careers in music
- 2.6: Music of Canada - Suggested use:
- Listening and artist example for fusion between traditions of Indigenous culture and hip hop
- Representation of Canadian Indigenous artist - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Inuit Games with Inukshuk Aksalnik
Video and webpage of Inukshuk Aksalnik explaining the origins of Inuit throat singing as a game. Two people would take turns speeding up and slowing down their voice and mimic sounds, until someone laughed.
Video and webpage of Inukshuk Aksalnik explaining the origins of Inuit throat singing as a game. Two people would take turns speeding up and slowing down their voice and mimic sounds, until someone laughed.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 2.6: Music of Canada - Suggested use:
- Exploring vocal sounds in Inuit culture
- Historical context of Inuit throat singing
- Canadian artist example - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Through Slavery, Segregation And More, 'La Bamba' Has Been The Sound Of Survival
A 9-minute audio clip and article on the power La Bamba through history as a sound of survival through colonialism and slavery, and how it continues to be remixed and used in protests today.
A 9-minute audio clip and article on the power La Bamba through history as a sound of survival through colonialism and slavery, and how it continues to be remixed and used in protests today.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 3.6: Music of the united states - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Connections to societal context in America - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations may be required for hard and hearing and visually impaired students
Behind the Seductive Rhythm of Bachata
A 9-minute video on the rising popularity of the Dominican style rhythm Bachata as explained by the Mexican-American band La Santa Cecilia. Explores the history of Bachata and its use in modern music.
A 9-minute video on the rising popularity of the Dominican style rhythm Bachata as explained by the Mexican-American band La Santa Cecilia. Explores the history of Bachata and its use in modern music.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Information on Bachata (Dominican music genre)
- Musical elements of Bachata, traditional instruments and rhythms that are used
- Cultural connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Inuit throat-singing sisters from Canada
A 3-minute video explaining the significance of throat singing through the Kettler sisters, and the importance of it in Inuit culture.
A 3-minute video explaining the significance of throat singing through the Kettler sisters, and the importance of it in Inuit culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 2.6: Music of Canada - Suggested use:
- Exploring vocal sounds in Inuit culture
- Historical context of Inuit throat singing
- Canadian artist example - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Gloria Estefan
Singer Gloria Estefan was born September 1, 1957, in Havana, Cuba. As a toddler Estefan fled Cuba with her family. In 1975 she met keyboardist Emilio Estefan, her future husband, who led a band called the Miami Latin Boys. Estefan became the lead singer and the band was renamed the Miami Sound Machine, before going on to score several Top 10 hits in the 1980s and 1990s.
Singer Gloria Estefan was born September 1, 1957, in Havana, Cuba. As a toddler Estefan fled Cuba with her family. In 1975 she met keyboardist Emilio Estefan, her future husband, who led a band called the Miami Latin Boys. Estefan became the lead singer and the band was renamed the Miami Sound Machine, before going on to score several Top 10 hits in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Gloria Estefan biography information
- Artist example for Latin American music module
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Celia Cruz
Celia Cruz was born in Havana, Cuba on October 21, 1925. She first gained recognition in the 1950s, as a singer with the orchestra Sonora Matancera. Relocating to the United States after the ascent of Fidel Castro, Cruz recorded 23 gold records with Tito Puente, the Fania All-Stars and other collaborators. Cruz died in New Jersey in 2003, at the age of 77.
Celia Cruz was born in Havana, Cuba on October 21, 1925. She first gained recognition in the 1950s, as a singer with the orchestra Sonora Matancera. Relocating to the United States after the ascent of Fidel Castro, Cruz recorded 23 gold records with Tito Puente, the Fania All-Stars and other collaborators. Cruz died in New Jersey in 2003, at the age of 77.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Celia Cruz biography information
- Artist example for Latin American music module
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Selena Quintanilla
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was an American singer, songwriter, spokesperson, businesswoman, model, actress, and fashion designer. Referred to as the "Queen of Tejano music", her contributions to music and fashion made her one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers of the late 20th century.
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was an American singer, songwriter, spokesperson, businesswoman, model, actress, and fashion designer. Referred to as the "Queen of Tejano music", her contributions to music and fashion made her one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers of the late 20th century.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Selena Quintanilla-Perez biography information
- Artist example for Latin American music module
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- Auto-generated captions
Level III
The Brothers Revolutionizing Japanese Jazz
Features two brothers who play shamisen. They blend tradition shamisen sounds with popular music.
The Brothers Revolutionizing Japanese Jazz
Features two brothers who play shamisen. They blend tradition shamisen sounds with popular music.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Introducing different types of stringed instruments around the world
- Discuss the similarities and differences they notice with the shamisen, in its sound, its build, etc. - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Taboo
Video on Taboo from Black Eyed Peas connecting to his Indigenous roots.
Video on Taboo from Black Eyed Peas connecting to his Indigenous roots.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.1: Artistic expression
- 3.6: Music of the United States
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Discussion on the interconnectedness of art and the artist's identity
- Discuss how an artist's identity affects their work - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Charley Patton, Grandfather of Delta Blues
Resource is a video from "The Indians Who Rocked the World". Charley Patton was the “grandfather of Delta blues,” a true legend–and part-Native American.
Resource is a video from "The Indians Who Rocked the World". Charley Patton was the “grandfather of Delta blues,” a true legend–and part-Native American.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.6: Music of the united states
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Can use as an introduction to a blues unit
- Discuss Patton's influence on some known blues artists
- Listening exercise on well-known blues artists and Patton's style of music (Compare and contrast) - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Indians Who Rocked the World Trailer
Resource is a video trailer to the documentary. The Indians Who Rocked the World is an electric look at Native American influence in popular music, going deep into the Indigenous foundations of rock.
Resource is a video trailer to the documentary. The Indians Who Rocked the World is an electric look at Native American influence in popular music, going deep into the Indigenous foundations of rock.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Can use as an introduction to rock and roll unit
- Indigenous culture and music resource - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
TED Talk: The enchanting music of sign language
Christine Sun Kim highlights the similarities between music and American Sign Language, and how she reclaims sound and music visually, with touch, and as an idea.
Christine Sun Kim highlights the similarities between music and American Sign Language, and how she reclaims sound and music visually, with touch, and as an idea.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.1: Artistic expression - Suggested use:
- Cross curricular connections with music and language/communication
- Using music for expression of thoughts, feelings, ideas - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions; audio and ASL
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Reinventing Electronic Music With Dubai’s Cellist DJ
Cellist Aaron Kim changes his musical style from classical to electronic when he learns of his hearing loss.
Cellist Aaron Kim changes his musical style from classical to electronic when he learns of his hearing loss.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2: Composing music
- 3.2: Electronic Music - Suggested use:
- Listening and artist example for electronic music module
- Examples of genre fusion between classical and electronic music
- Music career example - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
How One American Mastered the “Japanese Blues”
Jerome "Jero" White is an African-American Japanese man who is famous for singing enka in Japan. He was introduced to enka music from his Japanese grandmother. An interview on his career.
Jerome "Jero" White is an African-American Japanese man who is famous for singing enka in Japan. He was introduced to enka music from his Japanese grandmother. An interview on his career.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Artist and listening example for exploring vocal sounds in different cultures or genres
- Vocal genre of Japan - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
BTS' Incredible Success: Significance and Implications
A 15-minute video explaining the success of the Korean boy band, BTS and the cultural significance of their achievements.
A 15-minute video explaining the success of the Korean boy band, BTS and the cultural significance of their achievements.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Artist example
- Listening example
- Cultural significance and influence of BTS - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Children’s experiences shape what they imagine to be possible. Study after study has shown the value of exposing children with positive role models. Representation, including in the hours spent consuming media within the classroom, shape what they imagine to be possible for people who look like them, live where they live, or come from where they came from. Simply put, kids determine what they can be based on the examples around them. Therefore, we highly recommend you take 2-5 minutes everyday in your music class to introduce musicians of colour or cultural instruments. We've made this easy for you by creating a presentation that you can use with a slide a day to showcase a new musicians/instrument of diverse background. You could do this on a daily, weekly, bi-weekly or during a certain month. You could also make your own presentation and encourage this representation.
7-12 Musical Instruments by Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation
Level I
African Musical Instruments
Overview of different African musical instrument groups: idophones, cordophones, and percussion, as well as band and orchestral groups. Includes pictures and lists of instruments with a general description.
African Musical Instruments
Overview of different African musical instrument groups: idophones, cordophones, and percussion, as well as band and orchestral groups. Includes pictures and lists of instruments with a general description.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Introducing a variety of African musical instrument groups
- Students can compare and contrast each instrument and explore use of each - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Ring the World Around: A Multicultural Celebration for 2 or 3 Octaves Handchimes or Handbells
Book of world music for handbells available to purchase.
Book of world music for handbells available to purchase.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.5: Handbells (Introductory)
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Sheet music for handbells - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
The Güiro
The güiro is a Latin American percussion instrument consisting of an open-ended, hollow gourd with parallel notches cut in one side. The site includes information and a short video explaining how the güiro is played.
The güiro is a Latin American percussion instrument consisting of an open-ended, hollow gourd with parallel notches cut in one side. The site includes information and a short video explaining how the güiro is played.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the guiro
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing students
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
The Conga
The conga, also known as tumbadora, is a tall, narrow, single-headed drum from Cuba. This video showcases the sound and short history of the instrument.
The conga, also known as tumbadora, is a tall, narrow, single-headed drum from Cuba. This video showcases the sound and short history of the instrument.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the conga
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Dan Bau: A World of Music on One String
Jason Nguyen explains this Vietnamese one-stringed instrument, how to play the instrument in order to create different pitches. He explains his own cultural memories with the instrument.
Jason Nguyen explains this Vietnamese one-stringed instrument, how to play the instrument in order to create different pitches. He explains his own cultural memories with the instrument.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Artist/musician example - example of Vietnamese traditional instrument
- Cultural connections with instrument
- Traditional music instrument research project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Rise and Fall (and Rise) of the Ukulele
Discussion on the popularity of the ukulele and it's history. Good to pair if children are learning to play ukelele in music class.
Discussion on the popularity of the ukulele and it's history. Good to pair if children are learning to play ukelele in music class.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.8: Ukulele (Introductory) - Suggested use:
- Use as an introduction to the ukulele - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
What is a Log Drum?
The log drum is a hollow percussion instrument, also classified as an idiophone. It comes from the forest region of Guinea West Africa and can be seen in Native American cultures as well. The video is an overview of how the log drum works and the music it can create.
The log drum is a hollow percussion instrument, also classified as an idiophone. It comes from the forest region of Guinea West Africa and can be seen in Native American cultures as well. The video is an overview of how the log drum works and the music it can create.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the log drum
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Behind the Doodle: Celebrating Mbira
A short video that celebrates Zimbabwe’s national instrument, the mbira.
A short video that celebrates Zimbabwe’s national instrument, the mbira.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the mbira
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Kalimba
A 7-minute video following the Kalimba, its history and its modern day significance.
A 7-minute video following the Kalimba, its history and its modern day significance.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the Kalimba
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Level II
First Nations Music in Canada
A PDF explaining some musical instruments of Canada. Can be accompanied by a written explanation of instruments in Canadian indigenous communities.
First Nations Music in Canada
A PDF explaining some musical instruments of Canada. Can be accompanied by a written explanation of instruments in Canadian indigenous communities.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.6: Music of Canada
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- Program goals: 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Compare and contrast instruments used in class
- Use as an introduction for learning about percussion
- Use as a supplement to videos about instruments in Indigenous Communities - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired; additional accommodations may be required dependent on student abilities
What Makes Black Gospel Musicians So Skilled?
PBS video explaining how Black gospel music came to be, "shedding", also known as gospel drumming, and how many modern artists today have backgrounds in singing church music.
PBS video explaining how Black gospel music came to be, "shedding", also known as gospel drumming, and how many modern artists today have backgrounds in singing church music.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds - Suggested use:
- Connections to music history
- Gospel drumming
- Connections to modern day gospel genre - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Why Puerto Rican Bomba is Resistance
PBS video explaining the different instruments and rhythms used in the Puerto Rican Bomba music, as well as an outline of the history of bomba music used in resistance music for enslaved people and now in the Black Lives Matter movement.
PBS video explaining the different instruments and rhythms used in the Puerto Rican Bomba music, as well as an outline of the history of bomba music used in resistance music for enslaved people and now in the Black Lives Matter movement.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture and rhythms
- Music history
- Connections to Black Lives Matter movement - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Ocarina
The ocarina is an ancient wind instrument, that can be traced back to Mesoamerica and certain parts of Asia as well. The website explains the ocarina's rich history and there is also a short video about its history.
The ocarina is an ancient wind instrument, that can be traced back to Mesoamerica and certain parts of Asia as well. The website explains the ocarina's rich history and there is also a short video about its history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the ocarina
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations needed for visually impaired students as video contains no dialogue
Level III
T'rung and Klongput
This video demonstrates how to play two traditional Vietnamese instruments made out of bamboo: one by hitting them with mallets, and the other by clapping on the ends of the bamboo. Explanation can be found here and here.
T'rung and Klongput
This video demonstrates how to play two traditional Vietnamese instruments made out of bamboo: one by hitting them with mallets, and the other by clapping on the ends of the bamboo. Explanation can be found here and here.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Creating sound with various materials
- Traditional Vietnamese instruments; could be used for research project
- Traditional music instrument research project - Accessibility:
- No captions needed
Learn How To Play Sitar: Introduction To The Instrument
The sitar is a plucked stringed instrument, originating from the Indian subcontinent, used in Hindustani classical music. This video displays how one would begin playing the sitar and techniques when learning to play the instrument. Can be used with a webpage with a description of the sitar.
The sitar is a plucked stringed instrument, originating from the Indian subcontinent, used in Hindustani classical music. This video displays how one would begin playing the sitar and techniques when learning to play the instrument. Can be used with a webpage with a description of the sitar.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Technique to play the sitar
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Rubab: Afghan Music
The rubab, a lute-like musical instrument originating from Balochistan region. The rubab is one of the national musical instruments of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran, as well where Baloch people live. This video is a short introduction to the instrument, explaining what it is and its sound.
The rubab, a lute-like musical instrument originating from Balochistan region. The rubab is one of the national musical instruments of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran, as well where Baloch people live. This video is a short introduction to the instrument, explaining what it is and its sound.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Technique to play the rubab
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- No captions; additional accommodations required
Koto
Webpage with brief description, history, and video of the koto, the Japanese harp.
Webpage with brief description, history, and video of the koto, the Japanese harp.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Technique to play the Koto
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired students
Instruments of Thailand
The first resource is a website that has a list of various Thai instruments and information about them.
Additional video that showcases the sound of the ranat ek, a Thai xylophone.
The first resource is a website that has a list of various Thai instruments and information about them.
Additional video that showcases the sound of the ranat ek, a Thai xylophone.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play various Thai instruments, second video specifically the ranat
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired students
7 Chinese Classical Instruments You Should Know
A 10-minute video that introduces various Chinese instruments, highlighting their sound and their significance within Chinese culture.
A 10-minute video that introduces various Chinese instruments, highlighting their sound and their significance within Chinese culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Technique to play various traditional Chinese instruments
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Covering Rock Classics on the Ancient Gayageum
In Seoul, South Korea, Luna Lee is mixing a centuries-old Korean instrument, the gayageum, with the music of rock legends.
In Seoul, South Korea, Luna Lee is mixing a centuries-old Korean instrument, the gayageum, with the music of rock legends.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 2.2: Composing music - Suggested use:
- Introduce to discuss how musicians are taking traditional instruments and inserting their own modern, creative twist
- Introducing different types of stringed instruments around the world
- Discuss the similarities and differences they notice with the gayageum's sound, build, etc. - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Pipa with the Toronto Symphonic Orchestra
This video and webpage focuses on the pipa, a stringed Chinese instrument. Rejuvenation, a Taoist Journey highlights the composer's use of musical form phrases, and the call-and-response between the pipa and other instruments to convey the spirituality of Taoism.
This video and webpage focuses on the pipa, a stringed Chinese instrument. Rejuvenation, a Taoist Journey highlights the composer's use of musical form phrases, and the call-and-response between the pipa and other instruments to convey the spirituality of Taoism.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient
- 3.3: Elements of Music (Advanced) - Suggested use:
- Provides supplemental resources and lesson plans
- Listening example
- Connections to Chinese culture
- Example of call and response
- Traditional music instrument research project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Narashimono: Buddhist Musical Instruments
Webpage featuring instruments used in Japanese Buddhist ceremonies. Contains pictures and descriptions of the instruments as well as their significance in ceremonies.
Webpage featuring instruments used in Japanese Buddhist ceremonies. Contains pictures and descriptions of the instruments as well as their significance in ceremonies.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Traditional Japanese instruments and its connections to Japanese culture and societal uses
- Traditional music instrument research project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Filipino Bandurria
The first video is a short introduction on the instrument of the Bandurria and how it works, while the second video shows talented children playing the Bandurria.
The first video is a short introduction on the instrument of the Bandurria and how it works, while the second video shows talented children playing the Bandurria.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Instrument information of the Bandurria and how it is played
- Traditional music instrument research project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Korean Gayageum
A short video explaining a bit about the gayaguem, in which is a traditional Korean plucked zither, with twelve strings. The video shows students learning and playing the instrument as well.
A short video explaining a bit about the gayaguem, in which is a traditional Korean plucked zither, with twelve strings. The video shows students learning and playing the instrument as well.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Information on how to play the gayaguem
- Traditional music instrument research project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Dan Nguyet
A website that contains information about the Vietnamese instrument, the Dan Nyuyet, also known as the moon-shaped lute.
A website that contains information about the Vietnamese instrument, the Dan Nyuyet, also known as the moon-shaped lute.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the Dan Nyuyet
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Dutar
The first resource is a short video that quickly introduces the Dutar, a string instrument that is commonly found within Central Asian ethnic groups. The second resource is a website with information on the instrument itself.
The first resource is a short video that quickly introduces the Dutar, a string instrument that is commonly found within Central Asian ethnic groups. The second resource is a website with information on the instrument itself.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Listening example - technique to play the Dutar
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Oud
The Oud is a short-neck lute-type, pear-shaped stringed instrument, in which originated from the Middle East. The resource is a website that contains information about the instrument, as well as a video.
The Oud is a short-neck lute-type, pear-shaped stringed instrument, in which originated from the Middle East. The resource is a website that contains information about the instrument, as well as a video.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Listening example
- Technique to play the Oud
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Kubing
A website in which contains information about the Kubing, a jaw harp that is found in the Philippines among the Mindanao tribes.
A website in which contains information about the Kubing, a jaw harp that is found in the Philippines among the Mindanao tribes.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Technique to play the Kubing
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Making of the Mridangam - A Documentary Film
A presentation of the process of making the mridangam, an ancient instrument used in South Indian Classical Carnatic music. The documentary film covers the processes of making the wooden shell at Panruti, Tamil Nadu and the attachment of the drum heads to finish making the mridangam.
A presentation of the process of making the mridangam, an ancient instrument used in South Indian Classical Carnatic music. The documentary film covers the processes of making the wooden shell at Panruti, Tamil Nadu and the attachment of the drum heads to finish making the mridangam.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Information and technique to play the mridangam
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Veena
The veena is among the oldest of Indian musical instruments. From the references to Vedic writings, it can date back to around the first millennium B.C. Temple sculptures from the 2nd century B.C. show a type of veena being played.
The veena is among the oldest of Indian musical instruments. From the references to Vedic writings, it can date back to around the first millennium B.C. Temple sculptures from the 2nd century B.C. show a type of veena being played.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Information and technique to play the Veena
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Udukkai
The udukkai is an hourglass shaped, membranous drum used in devotional and folk music throughout India.
The udukkai is an hourglass shaped, membranous drum used in devotional and folk music throughout India.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Information and technique to play the Udukkai
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Tar Shehnai
The Tar Shehnai is an esraj (bowed string instrument) with an added mechanical amplifier. This amplifier fixed to the sound board of the instrument is modeled on the gramophone sound box to project a stronger, more directional sound. The amplifier gives the instrument a shehnai (reed instrument) sound quality and the overall effect is very much like a violin sound.
The Tar Shehnai is an esraj (bowed string instrument) with an added mechanical amplifier. This amplifier fixed to the sound board of the instrument is modeled on the gramophone sound box to project a stronger, more directional sound. The amplifier gives the instrument a shehnai (reed instrument) sound quality and the overall effect is very much like a violin sound.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Information and technique to play the Tar Shehnai
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Santoor
The Santoor’s name comes from the name Shata- tantric, meaning a Veena of hundred strings. It consists of a hollow box with twenty five bridges, each having four strings resting on it. It is played with the help of two wooden mallets known as mezrabs.
The Santoor’s name comes from the name Shata- tantric, meaning a Veena of hundred strings. It consists of a hollow box with twenty five bridges, each having four strings resting on it. It is played with the help of two wooden mallets known as mezrabs.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5 Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Information and technique to play the Santoor
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Miscellaneous
Documentary - Traditional Music of Turkey with Wooden Instruments
A 23-minute documentary that explores the tradition music of Turkey and the instruments that play crucial roles within the culture.
Documentary - Traditional Music of Turkey with Wooden Instruments
A 23-minute documentary that explores the tradition music of Turkey and the instruments that play crucial roles within the culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Music history and connections to modern music
- Connections to culture - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions; note captions have some errors
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Last of the Tibetan Fiddle Makers
Xianzi is a two-stringed instrument of Tibetan origin that’s not commonly seen outside of Yunnan, southwest China. Players of the traditional fiddle don’t follow sheet music, because the instrument was passed on through word-of-mouth and folk teachers.
Xianzi is a two-stringed instrument of Tibetan origin that’s not commonly seen outside of Yunnan, southwest China. Players of the traditional fiddle don’t follow sheet music, because the instrument was passed on through word-of-mouth and folk teachers.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Traditional information about fiddles and their cultural significance in Tibet, traditional musical instrument research project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Level I
A Pentatonic Scale Activity
Lesson plan and activity for teaching the pentatonic scale, a scale often used in East Asian music, to students.
A Pentatonic Scale Activity
Lesson plan and activity for teaching the pentatonic scale, a scale often used in East Asian music, to students.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of music (Introductory)
- 2.8: Musical Notation (Introductory)
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Music theory
- Various uses of the pentatonic scale in various cultures and genres of music
- Use to teach improvisation
- Includes audio files, visual pictures, links to nuanced words. Hands-on lesson. Students should have access to an instrument similar to the keys on the piano - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Bobby McFerrin Demonstrates the Power of the Pentatonic Scale
In this video, Bobby McFerrin demonstrates the power of the pentatonic scale, using audience participation. Have your students sing along with the audience!
In this video, Bobby McFerrin demonstrates the power of the pentatonic scale, using audience participation. Have your students sing along with the audience!
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Vocal sounds
- Use of pentatonic scale
- Connections to music theory
- Music performance material - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing with available captions
- Additional accommodations needed for visually impaired students
Is Blues the Mother of All Music?
This PBS video outlines the history of blues music, and how it continues to be the influence for future musical genres like rock, heavy metal, and country.
This PBS video outlines the history of blues music, and how it continues to be the influence for future musical genres like rock, heavy metal, and country.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: The beginning of rock music
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- History of the blues and its connections to modern day music genres
- History of genres project - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing with available captions
- Additional accommodations needed for visually impaired students
Exploring the Tabla
Lesson plan suggestion for Grade 9. Students will explore the sounds of South Asian tabla drum and compare it with similar African and Latin drums.
Lesson plan suggestion for Grade 9. Students will explore the sounds of South Asian tabla drum and compare it with similar African and Latin drums.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Comparison of music instruments from different cultures and genres
- Comparing tonal sounds - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations needed for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Caribbean Music: Calypso and Found Percussion
This link includes several different activities related to Calypso music. There is a short Introduction to Calypso music, songs to sing with calypso-style rhythms, a "found percussion" activity, Calypso-style rhythms to play on percussion, and a creative writing activity. There are also suggestions for finding recordings to listen to. Adaptable for K-12.
This link includes several different activities related to Calypso music. There is a short Introduction to Calypso music, songs to sing with calypso-style rhythms, a "found percussion" activity, Calypso-style rhythms to play on percussion, and a creative writing activity. There are also suggestions for finding recordings to listen to. Adaptable for K-12.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of Music
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Music ear training
- Rhythm
- Composition
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Why K-Pop is More Complex Than You Think
A 10-minute PBS video breaking down the complexities of K-pop, and how it blends the musical elements like chord progressions from ballads, EDM, and R&B to create it's own unique sound.
A 10-minute PBS video breaking down the complexities of K-pop, and how it blends the musical elements like chord progressions from ballads, EDM, and R&B to create it's own unique sound.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of Music
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Musical analysis of K-pop music
- Combination of a variety of genres - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Jazz Shaped Hip Hop, but How Did Hip Hop Influence Jazz?
A 20-minute PBS video on how the musical styles of jazz and hip hop shape and influence one another. Follow Linda Diaz and LA Buckner explore the cross-pollination of the two genres through wordplay, sampling, improvisation and more.
A 20-minute PBS video on how the musical styles of jazz and hip hop shape and influence one another. Follow Linda Diaz and LA Buckner explore the cross-pollination of the two genres through wordplay, sampling, improvisation and more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Elements of music
- Vocal sounds
- Cross genres connections
- History of music genres - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
The Sound of NYC's Underground Vogue Scene (ft. Qween Beat)
This 13-minute PBS video explores the musical style and dance of voguing and ballroom, explaining its origins in the Black and Latino LGBTQIA+ community.
This 13-minute PBS video explores the musical style and dance of voguing and ballroom, explaining its origins in the Black and Latino LGBTQIA+ community.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Music history
- Cross curricular connections with dance
- Societal context and connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
History of Rap
A website that contains information about the origins of rap and how various African communities created it.
A website that contains information about the origins of rap and how various African communities created it.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Music history project
- Origins of musical genres
- Societal context and connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing students
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
The ‘whitewashing’ of Black music: A dark chapter in rock history
Resource includes videos and examples of whitewashing rock history.
Resource includes videos and examples of whitewashing rock history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.1: The beginning of rock music
- 1.2: Black music
- Program goals: 3, 5 - Suggested use:
- Discussion on what it means for music/genres to be 'whitewashed' and the implications in the past and present - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing students
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Didjeridu Activities
This is a lesson plan for a set of simple classroom activities, suitable for a wide range of student ages and abilities, to introduce them to the didjeridu, a traditional Aboriginal Australian instrument. Note: Requires materials to make a didjeridu and prep to adapt information regarding the instrument/origin.
This is a lesson plan for a set of simple classroom activities, suitable for a wide range of student ages and abilities, to introduce them to the didjeridu, a traditional Aboriginal Australian instrument. Note: Requires materials to make a didjeridu and prep to adapt information regarding the instrument/origin.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of music (Introductory)
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Performing on instruments
- Improvisation activity
- Connection between music and society
- Music history - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Kotekan: A Cooperative Music Activity
Lesson plan adaptable for K-12, teaching students kotekan, the basic gamelan technique of interlocking percussion parts. Includes examples, a lesson plan, and break-down of activity. Example of Kotekan video.
Lesson plan adaptable for K-12, teaching students kotekan, the basic gamelan technique of interlocking percussion parts. Includes examples, a lesson plan, and break-down of activity. Example of Kotekan video.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of music (Introductory)
- 2.8: Musical Notation (Introductory) - Suggested use:
- Performing music techniques of non-Western music context
- Connections to music notation and rhythm
- Music performance material - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Talking Drums
Adaptable lesson plan for K-12 to teach student about tonal language, talking drum, message drum, their relationships to one another and how to change the pitch of a drum.
Adaptable lesson plan for K-12 to teach student about tonal language, talking drum, message drum, their relationships to one another and how to change the pitch of a drum.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of music (Introductory)
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Connection to music theory
- Elements of music
- Instrument technique - Accessibility:
- Includes PDF handout, suggestions on how to make the lesson more experiential (visuals, demos)
- Tonal language activity may be difficult to transcribe for audio-impaired students
- Accommodations needed, student dependent
An Introduction to Sega: The Music and Dance of Mauritius
Includes lesson plans on how to introduce sega into the classroom, along with a dance and singing activity. Adaptable for K-12.
Includes lesson plans on how to introduce sega into the classroom, along with a dance and singing activity. Adaptable for K-12.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 1.3: Elements of music (Introductory)
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Music performance material
- Cross curricular connection with dance
- Includes audio files, visual pictures, links to nuanced words, hands-on lesson, requires access to a map - Accessibility:
- Accommodations will be need to be made for all visually impaired, nonverbal, and hard of hearing students
The Birthplace of Jazz
A website that contains information about how the jazz genre originated through the African-American community.
A website that contains information about how the jazz genre originated through the African-American community.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Music history of Jazz; history project
- Connections to societal context - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students and hard of hearing students
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
The Origins of Hip Hop
A 6-minute video in which explains the origins of Hip Hop culture and how it began through African-American youth.
A 6-minute video in which explains the origins of Hip Hop culture and how it began through African-American youth.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Music history project
- Origins of musical genres
- Societal context and connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
Haitian with Emeline
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Emeline introduces the rhythms of Haiti. Includes lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Emeline introduces the rhythms of Haiti. Includes lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Music rhythm
- Music analysis
- Connections to culture
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions available
- Transcription
Kora with Yacouba
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Yacouba explains the Kora instrument and how it is used. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Yacouba explains the Kora instrument and how it is used. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds - Suggested use:
- Information and technique to play the Kora
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Connections to culture
- Music history - Accessibility:
- No captions
Who Invented Trap Music?
A 10-minute video PBS video on well-recognized fast hi-hats of trap music. This video delves into the history of trap music to find who it originated from.
A 10-minute video PBS video on well-recognized fast hi-hats of trap music. This video delves into the history of trap music to find who it originated from.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- History of trap music genre
- Connections to culture and societal context - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with available captions
- Additional accommodations for visually impaired students needed
South African Zulu with Bongi and Tshidi
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. These two artists explore the harmonies in traditional Zulu songs and the percussive aspects of the language. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. These two artists explore the harmonies in traditional Zulu songs and the percussive aspects of the language. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Music history
- Analyzing song lyrics and making connections to culture
- Listening examples
- Connections between percussive sounds and language - Accessibility:
- No captions
Message Drums
This lesson plan includes an explanation and discussion of message drums, and an activity demonstrating how they are used.
This lesson plan includes an explanation and discussion of message drums, and an activity demonstrating how they are used.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.3: Elements of music (Introductory)
- Program goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - Suggested use:
- Instrument technique
- Develop a code consisting of several messages that can be sent using two drum pitches, and will demonstrate their code to the class by using it to successfully send messages across a classroom - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal students
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Iraqi Folk with Layth
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Layth explains vocal ornamentation and the rhythms in Iraqi folk music. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Layth explains vocal ornamentation and the rhythms in Iraqi folk music. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Use of vocal sounds
- Rhythm
- Cross curricular connection to dance
- Listening example - Accessibility:
- No captions
History of Soul Music
A website that contains information about the origin of Soul Music and more. Soul music is a genre of African American popular music that led to many later genres, from funk and dance music to hip hop and contemporary R&B.
A website that contains information about the origin of Soul Music and more. Soul music is a genre of African American popular music that led to many later genres, from funk and dance music to hip hop and contemporary R&B.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Music history of Soul Music; history project
- Connections from Soul Music to modern music genres
- Use of music in dance
- Connections to societal context - Accessibility:
- Accessibility varies by video, some accommodations will be needed, student dependent
Jazz with Brianna
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Brianna explains scatting and musical elements of jazz. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Brianna explains scatting and musical elements of jazz. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 1.2: Black music - Suggested use:
- Elements of Jazz music
- Vocal sounds
- Music analysis
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions
Indian Classical with Falu
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Falu speaks of ornamentation use and scales in Indian singing. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Falu speaks of ornamentation use and scales in Indian singing. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.4: Exploring vocal sounds
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Vocal sounds in Indian singing
- Music theory; use of scales
- Music analysis - Accessibility:
- No captions
Hip Hop with Soul Science Lab
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. This duo explains the elements of hip hop for an elementary audience. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. This duo explains the elements of hip hop for an elementary audience. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Elements of Hip Hop music
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions
Level II
Argentine Folk with Sofia R. and Sofia T.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. These two artists explore Argentinian 6/8 rhythms with kitchen sounds! Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
Argentine Folk with Sofia R. and Sofia T.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. These two artists explore Argentinian 6/8 rhythms with kitchen sounds! Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- 6/8 rhythm activities
- Creating music using everyday objects
- Composition
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions
All My Relations: Celebrating Canada’s Indigenous Peoples
A lesson plan that goes into detail about Indigenous music, dance, and history.
A lesson plan that goes into detail about Indigenous music, dance, and history.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.6: Music of Canada - Suggested use:
- Music analysis
- Music listening examples
- Connections and significance in Indigenous culture - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
Bomba and Plena with Juan and Julia
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. This family explains the instruments and rhythms used in these Afro-Puerto Rican song styles. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. This family explains the instruments and rhythms used in these Afro-Puerto Rican song styles. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.7: Music of Latin America
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds - Suggested use:
- Traditional music instrument research project
- Music rhythm
- Connections to culture
- Music history
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions
Brazilian with Fabiana
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Fabiana explains samba rhythms. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Fabiana explains samba rhythms. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Music rhythm
- Connections to culture
- Music history
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions
Cumbia with Gregorio
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Gregorio explains the rhythms and instruments used in cumbia dance. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Gregorio explains the rhythms and instruments used in cumbia dance. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.7: Sources of musical sounds
- 2.7: Music of Latin America - Suggested use:
- Music rhythm
- Connections to culture
- Music history
- Listening examples - Accessibility:
- No captions
Level III
Chinese Traditional with Qian Yi
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Qian Yi explains the pentatonic scale in Chinese traditional music, and goes through a simple new years song. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
Chinese Traditional with Qian Yi
From Carnegie Hall's Musical Explorers series. Qian Yi explains the pentatonic scale in Chinese traditional music, and goes through a simple new years song. Includes 2 lesson plans with lyrics, notations, pictures, and videos. Also includes a teacher resource section to learn more.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Use of pentatonic scale in Chinese traditional music
- Connections to music theory and analysis
- Listening examples
- Connection to culture - Accessibility:
- No captions
Decolonizing the Music Room: Lunar New Year
This resource explains the importance in recognizing differences and similarities between Asian cultures, groups and diaspora in regarding to celebrating the Lunar New Year. The resource also includes links to popular folk songs. Can also use with the resource: Decolonizing the Music Room: Emergent Strategies for an Activist in Music Education.
This resource explains the importance in recognizing differences and similarities between Asian cultures, groups and diaspora in regarding to celebrating the Lunar New Year. The resource also includes links to popular folk songs. Can also use with the resource: Decolonizing the Music Room: Emergent Strategies for an Activist in Music Education.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.1: Artistic expression
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Listening examples
- Connections to modern day music
- Cultural connections - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
What Makes Oriental Music Sound Different?
Article on the use of the pentatonic scale in East Asian music.
Article on the use of the pentatonic scale in East Asian music.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.5: Music of the Orient - Suggested use:
- Music theory
- Uses of the pentatonic scale in various cultures and genres of music - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
Around the World in Seven Scales
Provides some picture examples on different scales used in cultures around the world, including the harmonic minor, Japanese, Chinese, Persian, etc.
Provides some picture examples on different scales used in cultures around the world, including the harmonic minor, Japanese, Chinese, Persian, etc.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.8: Musical Notation (Introductory)
- 3.3: Elements of music
- Program goals: 1, 3 ,5 - Suggested use:
- Music theory
- Uses of scale in various cultures and genres of music
- Cultural connections - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
Music and the Movement
Lesson plan on analyzing the construction of important protest music during the Civil Rights Movement by using the tune of children's songs as an example.
Lesson plan on analyzing the construction of important protest music during the Civil Rights Movement by using the tune of children's songs as an example.
- Curriculum connection:
- 1.2: Black music
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Song analysis
- Connections between music and societal context
- Re-writing song lyrics - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
Move to the Music
An article and a toolkit to help student discuss powerful social, political and cultural messages in music. Student take turns making "mini-lessons" for the class on lyrics from a chosen song.
An article and a toolkit to help student discuss powerful social, political and cultural messages in music. Student take turns making "mini-lessons" for the class on lyrics from a chosen song.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- How to integrate protest music into the junior high classroom and the WHY
- Analyzing song lyrics and making connections to societal issues and events - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
Pop Music as Critical Text
Lesson plan on fostering critical listening and thinking skills by analyzing feminist messages in Beyonce's song lyrics and music videos. Critical Listening Guide handout and suggestions included.
Lesson plan on fostering critical listening and thinking skills by analyzing feminist messages in Beyonce's song lyrics and music videos. Critical Listening Guide handout and suggestions included.
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.3: Elements of Music (Advanced)
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Analyzing song lyrics and making connections to societal issues and events - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
How The Civil Rights Movement Transformed "This Little Light of Mine"
This 7-minute audio clip goes through the history of the children's song "This Little Light of Mine" as a song for the Civil Rights Movement and how it continues to be a powerful protest song. Can use with additional resource: Singing for Justice: Following the Journey of "This Little Light of Mine"
This 7-minute audio clip goes through the history of the children's song "This Little Light of Mine" as a song for the Civil Rights Movement and how it continues to be a powerful protest song. Can use with additional resource: Singing for Justice: Following the Journey of "This Little Light of Mine"
- Curriculum connection:
- 3.6: Music of the United States - Suggested use:
- Music history
- Analyzing song lyrics and making connections to societal issues and events - Accessibility:
- Accommodations needed
Chapter 13: Musical Multiculturalism and Diversity
This chapter will look at the history of multiculturalism and diversity education, the field of ethnomusicology, and strategies for teaching using multicultural music aesthetics. It also includes case studies from several different culture areas.
This chapter will look at the history of multiculturalism and diversity education, the field of ethnomusicology, and strategies for teaching using multicultural music aesthetics. It also includes case studies from several different culture areas.
Embracing Unfamiliar Cultures in the Music Classroom
This article provides guidance on navigating the lesson design process for music teachers to move beyond the “additive” approach. Teachers can adopt a “multicultural reconstructionist perspective” (Sleeter & Grant, 2006) by encouraging their students to analyze music from social, historical, and political perspectives, inviting them to engage in social criticism and to challenge mainstream structures supporting inequity.
This article provides guidance on navigating the lesson design process for music teachers to move beyond the “additive” approach. Teachers can adopt a “multicultural reconstructionist perspective” (Sleeter & Grant, 2006) by encouraging their students to analyze music from social, historical, and political perspectives, inviting them to engage in social criticism and to challenge mainstream structures supporting inequity.
The most mind-blowing concept in music (Harmonic Series)
Andrew Huang explains the basics of all music. He explains that a harmonic series is the sequence of frequencies, musical tones, or pure tones in which each frequency is an integer multiple of a fundamental.
Andrew Huang explains the basics of all music. He explains that a harmonic series is the sequence of frequencies, musical tones, or pure tones in which each frequency is an integer multiple of a fundamental.