Jazz Roots: Rhythms & Legends

Exploring the Origins and Pioneers of America's Music Grade 7 Music Education

Learning Objectives - I Can Statements

I can describe the origins and cultural significance of Jazz music in the early 20th century I can identify key Jazz figures like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington and explain their contributions I can use multimedia sources to gather information and present findings creatively I can perform a simple Jazz rhythm or melody on an instrument demonstrating understanding of Jazz evolution

The Birth of Jazz: New Orleans 1890s-1920s

Cultural Influences That Created Jazz

{"left":"African rhythms and call-and-response patterns\nEuropean harmonies and instruments\nBlues and spirituals from enslaved communities","right":"Ragtime piano styles\nMilitary brass band traditions\nWork songs and field hollers"}

Louis Armstrong: The First Jazz Superstar

Born in New Orleans in 1901 Revolutionized jazz with his trumpet playing and scat singing Famous for songs like 'What a Wonderful World' and 'Hello, Dolly!' Helped spread jazz from New Orleans to Chicago and New York Known for his charismatic personality and innovative improvisation

Duke Ellington: The Master Composer

Led one of the most famous big bands in jazz history Composed over 1,000 pieces including 'Take Five' and 'Caravan' Elevated jazz to high art through sophisticated arrangements Performed at the famous Cotton Club in Harlem Known for his elegant style and complex orchestrations

Jazz Rhythm Challenge

Listen to the jazz rhythm patterns Practice clapping along with the beat Try creating your own jazz rhythm using body percussion Work in pairs to perform a call-and-response pattern Share your rhythms with the class

Reflection: Jazz's Legacy Today

How do you think jazz music influenced other genres we hear today? What makes jazz different from other types of music? Why was jazz important for African American culture and history? Can you hear jazz influences in modern music you listen to?