Let’s face it – some of the National Core Arts and State Academic Standards for music classes and performing ensembles are easy to meet. The standards of “Creating” and “Performing” are exactly what we do with our students – class after class, day after day, semester after semester.
However, the standards of “Reponding” and “Connecting” are, at times, more ambiguous in our lesson plans. Sure, we talk about the general structure or historical meaning of a 19th century American folk song. Or talk about the importance of Duke Ellington in American music while introducing one of his works early in the rehearsal process. We may also have occasion to share our opinions about the role of the Beatles, Phil Spector, Run D.M.C., or even George Gershwin if given the chance.
But, what if those ideas, concepts, terms, and names were regularly factored into our students’ reading, listening, learning, and discussion? What if the invaluable contributions and concepts of American popular music history were a consistent part of our music class activities? And what if those activities could happen as an augmentation to the rehearsal or regular class activities?
With ampopmusic.com, “responding” and “connecting” through the study of American popular music history CAN be easily incorporated into part of entire semester – even a full year – of assignments and activities.
With nine separate Study Units, the standards of “Responding” and “Connecting” can be addressed with any single genre – such as jazz, rock or rap. However, by utilizing more of the Study Units, a broader understanding and appreciation of the tremendous richness of the tapestry of popular music in America is gained.
If you wish to use AmPopMusic as a stand-alone class, or as an augmentation of your existing class activities, here are some ideas of how teachers are using ampopmusic.com to meet the “Responding” and “Connecting” standards with their music students.
If you wish to use AmPopMusic as a stand-alone class, or as an augmentation of your existing class activities, click the button to find out how teachers are using ampopmusic.com to meet the “Responding” and “Connecting” standards with their music students.
If you wish to use AmPopMusic as a stand-alone class, or as an augmentation of your existing class activities, email contact@ampopmusic.com to learn ideas of how teachers are using ampopmusic.com to meet the “Responding” and “Connecting” standards with their music students.
