Listed below are the composers we have learned about in music class. You can also find some special information about the specific composer and the type of music they created. At the bottom of the page, you will also find links to recordings of these special composer pieces we have studied and listened to in class.
Chuck Berry (4th/5th Rock 'n' Roll Unit)
On our first day in music, we rocked out to "Johnny B. Goode" performed by Chuck Berry. Charles Edward Anderson or "Chuck" Berry is an American guitarist, singer and songwriter. He is one of the pioneers of rock and roll music. Chuck was born in St. Louis in October of 1926. 4th and 5th graders can look forward to hearing more from Chuck in their 50's Rock 'n' Roll unit that happens in the spring.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
One of the pieces we will listen to in class by Mozart is called, "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" or " A little night music." Mozart was born on January 27th, 1756 in Salzburg, Austria. He grew up in a very musical household, performing at a young age with both his sister and his father. Mozart was known as a musical prodigy, composing his first piece of music at the age of 5! Mozart wrote music mainly in the Classical style. Many composers looked to Mozart for help and guidance because he was so talented and successful.
Johann Sebastian Bach
For the month of October, we will continue to learn and listen some very special and spooky compositions by Bach. I lovingly dubbed it "Bachtober!"The first piece we will listen to in music class is called "Toccata and Fugue." This piece usually reminds many students of Halloween because for the dark and rich tone of the organ. The organ was one of Bach's favorite instruments and he used it for many of his compositions. The second composition we will listen to by Bach is called the "Brandenburg Concerto #5." This piece is completely different than the first Bach piece we will experience. Instead to sounding spooky, students usually believe that this composition sounds like a song for a King and Queen.
Louis Armstrong (Jazz Unit)
Jazz is a musical style that students don't learn a lot about until 3rd grade. In 3rd grade and again, more in-depth, in 5th grade, students experience the different types of jazz music, where it all began, and who where/are the standouts in this swingin' genre. Louis Armstrong is a favorite of mine and a musician that many students enjoy listening to the most in my class. Louis Armstrong was an American jazz musician who was known as one of the best trumpeters in history. He was also a composer, singer and occasional actor. He was one of the most influential figures in jazz music. He was born in New Orleans in August of 1901.