Bruce Henry believes in the power of music to entertain, uplift, heal and educate. On the education side, Bruce presents workshops on creativity, vocal performance, Afro-American musicology, and also private lessons.

On a deeper level, Bruce believes that as an artist, he has a personal mission to define the field of "edutainment". He enjoys creating music for education, entertainment, social change and for spiritual healing. Bruce finds it a worthy profession and an exciting endeavor.

"Bruce Henry is definitely one of the best artists in education currently out there today."

Randy Jennings, Director - Compas Arts Education Programs

Evolution of African-American Music

"To understand African-American music, it's history and the context in which it exists within the African-American community is to gain a profound insight into the black experience. To participate and experience these truly American art forms is to understand the nature of what we African-Americans call soul."

The Evolution of African-American Music is an interactive program that engages students and shares the artist's love for history and music.

Music Genres Explored

• African Vocal Music
• Field Hollers
• Spirituals
• Blues
• Jazz
• R & B
• Rock
• Hip Hop

Participation
Ages 5 - Adult. Approprate for elementary, middle and high school, colleges, adult education, afterschool activity, choirs, vocal ensembles, history and social studies classes.

Interdisciplinary
Music education, music performance and social studies. We will provide students with a thorough overview of the elements of African American music from the earliest arrival in America to contemporary music trends.

My program includes lecture, performance and a great deal of audience participation. We explore how much of today's current music was influenced by the music of Africa. We trace the connections by studying Afro music distinctions such as pentatonic scales, blue notes, melisma and syncopation. Students will learn to recognize these distinctions in African-American music from field hollers to hip-hop. Students will also learn the many music styles that were developed by African-Americans. For example: students learn how to distinguish between bebop and swing, how these art forms came to exist and the individuals credited with their creations.

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Coaching in:

• Spontaneity
• Improvisation
• Breathing
• Performance Techniques
• Repertoire Building

Bruce A. Henry, a renowned vocalist and educator, communicates with students of all ages and singing styles. Positive instructional style will encourage the shyest of students to free their voices.

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Resume

Vocal Instructor - Music Tech, Minneapolis
Teach applied vocal theory

Vocal Clinician - Nationally
Perform workshops and teach private lessons in studios, and at high schools and colleges.

Performing Artist / Band Leader / Composer
Perform in concert, private functions, on various recordings.
Leader of the Bruce Henry Band. Compose for recordings and film.

Music Director - Hands on Child Care Center
Vocal instruction and choir director ages 5-16.

Education