Musical Heritage

Procedure

Analyze, Interpret, and Relate

Placing all of the below information/questions into an electronic Form (Google, Microsoft, etc.) makes it easier to guide students through the assignment, and is helpful for educator review/data collection.

Introductory Statement:

If you grew up as a young child in the United States, you probably learned American folk songs such as Yankee Doodle, Old MacDonald Had a Farm, and Oh, Susanna. For this assignment, I would like you to take a deeper look at your roots and find music that is common in your cultural heritage. It could be a favorite song that an older relative sang to you when you were little, music used for celebrations or religious events, or pieces that you stumbled upon when looking up the music of your heritage. If you are unsure of your roots, this is a fantastic time to get your family involved. Not only will you learn more about your family, you will probably hear some great stories in the process!

Question 1:

“What is your family heritage? Feel free to include any interesting details you may have learned when discussing with your family (for example, my great-great grandfather came to the US from Germany, one grandma came to the US from Ireland on vacation when she was 14 but found a job as a maid and never returned, and my other Grandma is French-Canadian.)”

Question 2:

Student will use YouTube to research a piece of music from their cultural heritage to use for the remaining questions. By copying/pasting the link, it allows the educator to listen as they read through the students analysis of the music.

Question 3:

“What is the purpose of this music - is it a teaching song (like the ABC's), a sacred piece of music (used in religious services), a ballad (tells a story or cultural tale), a traditional dance, etc.? Please explain using examples from the recording.”

Question 4:

“Please list the instruments used, as well as their function in the music (drone, chording, percussion, etc.). How do these instruments and their function relate to the instruments (and their harmonic functions) in a string orchestra?”

Question 5:

“What are the defining qualities of this music in regard to the composition? Think about details such as keys, rhythms, and other things that make it sound like music of your heritage. Feel free to compare/contrast to American folk songs.”

Question 6:

“What inspired you to choose this piece of music over others you may have listened to? Does it hold special significance to you? Please explain.”

Standards Code

Cn.10.1.E.HSI-HSIII

Suggested Assessment

Based off their prior knowledge, students will self-analyze and self-assess the music, instruments, and meaning in the piece they select. Educator should read through all responses to check for understanding and depth of thoughtfulness.

Enduring Understanding

10.1 – The multidimensional system of music allows us to uniquely express and reflect upon ideas, opinions aesthetic values, and human sentience. Musicians draw upon universal themes, disciplinary and interdisciplinary understandings, and life experiences to inform their creative expressions.

Essential Question

How does music deepen our understanding of ourselves, promote creative expression, and encourage productive collaboration?

What inspires and informs the creative work of musicians?

Notes/Resources/Accommodations

https://drive.google.com/open?id=186LmfIna8OxwlvXdNaUqnS2bm1aUIDuJ