Harlem Renaissance and History of Jazz Lesson

This is a lesson plan for Harlem Renaissance and History of Jazz.

Specific Objectives:

• Students will be able to describe the evolution of jazz as it went through the Harlem Renaissance.

Materials:

Worksheet provided

Computer connected to youtube and some speakers

Lesson:

In this lesson, students will learn a brief history of jazz and the role the Harlem Renaissance played in it by actually immersing themselves in the music. A worksheet is provided in which students have to describe some of the music that is played on the computer. After each song is over, you ask them how they would describe it. Then you give your own “more educated” opinion on it. Basically, you walk the students through the evolution of jazz.

Here is a rough “answer key”:

The first song, for which you could choose any other, simply shows a contrast to jazz. It is classical music, which follows a score and is therefore a lot more structured.

Old Blues has kind of a melancholic tone. It clearly arose amidst the hardships that African Americans went through.

When the blues reached New Orleans, it became blended with opera, marching bands, African drumming, church music… and so the blues became more upbeat.

Then music traveled to Harlem, NYC. One of the main characteristics of jazz is its improvisation. It is a symbol of freedom and liberation, in a way, a longing of the blues fulfilled.

To the study the influence of Harlem, then play Duke Ellington, who kind of fueled the swing era.

Modern jazz, which you could play anything you want, is a lot softer. It has become more “tamed” for everyone’s taste.

By the end, it should be clear how much of the music that is enjoyed all over the world is attributable to African Americans and the Harlem Renaissance.

Clickable YouTube links are included.