Country & Western

With its roots in the folk music of the Appalachian mountain states, country music has grown to find an evergrowing foothold in American musical culture. Through many sub-genres and variances in instrumentation, country music has evolved for almost a century. During that time, it has broadened to incorporate the sound of western music, popular, rock, and rap music. This unit explores the uniqueness of each of the sub-genres, their common and distinct characteristics, and important influencers since the early 20^th century. Students will also develop the listening skills necessary to distinguish between various styles, instruments, and sounds of country & western music.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Understand that in the birth and evolution of country & western music, many sub-genres developed that possessed their own characteristics as well as common themes and musical elements.
• Discuss the influence of folk music from specific geographical regions in the birth and evolution of country & western music.
• Explore the instrumentation of country & western music.
• Describe some of the characteristics of country & western music and the forms of music composed.
• Talk about a few of the influential composers and performers of country & western music.
• Consider the impact of country & western on current American culture.