Explore aspects of African music as reflected in the songs and music of slaves who lived in coastal South Carolina.

Ralph Ellison was a musician who later became a writer. His book Invisible Man is written like a jazz composition. In this lesson, students will interpret key themes and concepts in Invisible Man that are also found in jazz music.

An extensive look at the father of country music, Jimmie Rodgers, along with audio clips, a biography, and sources for more information.

This is a short history of the major influences that have combined to create mountain music, one of which is minstrel music. Provides a good decription of minstrel music in general. Includes names and descriptions of specific songs,...

This lesson plan supplements a study of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. The lesson is designed to help students understand the impact of Jim Crow Laws and their impact of oppression on African Americans. Blues music is shared to help...

Take a look into the life of blues artist Muddy Waters (1913-1983 CE). With an informative biography and an interactive career timeline, you will enjoy learning about this music legend.

A site showing some of the worlds greatest piano players ever. Learn about famous pianist from all genres of music.

Sam Cooke's influence on music, as the pioneer in cross-over from gospel to rhythm and blues, is described in this encyclopedia entry. His music was important to the African-American identity in the Civil Rights movement.

Interested in popular and serious music, Gershwin (1898-1937) played a big part in bringing jazz to a more important place in American music. He helped mix it with classical music in his compositions. Read more about his work, including...

"The Father Of Country Music", Jimmy Rodgers had a successful musical career. Read more about his life and music at this site. Included is a biography, a discography, and a small photo gallery.

This site offers brief biographical information about Vermeer but emphasizes his works. Over 20 paintings are featured as enlargeable images so you can get a close look at each one. Several works have in depth description and analysis...

This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Donna Summer, an American singer-songwriter considered the "Queen of Disco" but also successful in rhythm and blues, dance music, and pop.

Read about Leroy Anderson, a composer who wrote many well-known songs. Includes a brief biography and discography.

This introduction to the life and writing of Langston Hughes profiles the poet who emerged with the Harlem Renaissance to earn "a place amongst the greatest poets America has ever produced."