the Evolution of african american music
When you listen to rock, gospel, R&B, soul, jazz and hip-hop, you are hearing the survival of African culture in America. Developed by Bruce, The Evolution of African American Music lays out this connection through the classroom, concerts, informances, educator trainings, workshops and residencies. The Evolution is simply for anyone interested in music, culture and our country's history. An interdisciplinary program, the Evolution provides recipients a thorough overview of African American music from 1619 to contemporary music trends. Adapted for all ages and settings, the Evolution is perfect for schools, public shows, conferences, workshops and trainings.
Explore the three ways the Evolution can be delivered:
“Bruce is definitely one of the best artists in education out there today.”
Randy Jennings, Director of Compas Arts Education Programs, Minnesota
performances
The Evolution of African-American Music is an interactive and multimedia concert for all ages that explores history and traces the connection between traditional African music all the way to hip hop. This entertaining and educational concert helps participants understand and appreciate the many styles of African American music and how field hollers, jazz, R&B and rap are connected.
Bruce and the band perform examples of the following:
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African Music
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Work Songs
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Minstrelsy
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Military Music
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Blues
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Gospel & Spirituals
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Rhythm & Blues
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Classical
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Protest Music
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Soul Music
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Jazz
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Hip-Hop
Packed with knowledge and history, the concert is a great and powerful example of human innovation, evolution, empowerment and expression.
curriculum
The Evolution of African American Music curriculum is designed to teach students and adults about the long history of African American music.
The curriculum is perfect for middle and secondary classroom and home school settings as well as college and adult learners. It is easily connected to educational standards, music curriculum and social studies lessons.
Topics covered:
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African Music
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Work Songs
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Minstrelsy
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Military Music
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Blues
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Gospel & Spirituals
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Rhythm & Blues
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Classical
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Protest Music
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Soul Music
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Jazz
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Hip-Hop
PDF Includes:
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130 pages and 20 lessons with teacher's guide and easily printable background texts
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Choral arrangements
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Extensive bibliography
Price for PDF: $19.95*
*The curriculum PDF is subject to copyright protection. Unauthorized retention, duplication, distribution, or modification of copyrighted materials is strictly prohibited by law.
residencies
Residencies and/or informances (informal and informative presentations) can be customized to suit your specific educational needs. You may prefer a complete overview or an expanded view of a specific genre. A multi-day residency and one-day informance are also options.
The Evolution offers learners an opportunity to work across disciplines such as:
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Music
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History
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Theater
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Public Speaking
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Social Studies
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Literary Arts
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Vocal and Instrumental Performance
Not only is the Evolution educational, but is is also interactive, entertaining and inspiring. Its multimedia component adds to Bruce's enthusiasm, knowledge and passion as he works with groups of learners.
“Bruce brings African American history to life through his passionate and dynamic performance. Watching Bruce with my students was amazing!”
Madeline Elmhirst, Robbinsdale Middle School
"Renowned master teacher, master jazz singer, Mr. Bruce A. Henry's curriculum, The Evolution of African American Music, is informed by solid and well-rounded scholarship. The Bruce Henry curricular journey leaves students
enthralled, informed and dramatically transformed."
Tamrat Tademe PH.D. St. Cloud State University