Black American Music, commonly referred to as “Jazz” is a uniquely American art form that has had a profound impact on the evolution of music in the United States. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, when African Americans were beginning to assert their cultural identity and push back against the oppressive Jim Crow laws that had been put in place to maintain segregation. Jazz emerged as a way for black musicians to express themselves and tell their own stories, and it quickly became a cornerstone of African American culture.

As jazz gained popularity, it began to influence other genres of music, including blues, rock and roll, and even classical. The improvisational nature of jazz allowed for a level of creativity and freedom that had not been seen before, and it opened up new possibilities for artists of all kinds. Jazz musicians were constantly experimenting with new sounds and techniques, and this spirit of innovation has continued to shape the music industry to this day.

Despite its important role in the history of music, jazz is often overlooked in public school music education. This is particularly unfortunate given the close connection between jazz and black history in America. Jazz was born out of the struggle for civil rights and has always been a means of expressing the experiences and emotions of African Americans. By teaching students about jazz, we can not only expose them to a rich and diverse artistic tradition, but also provide them with a greater understanding of the struggles and triumphs of black Americans.

One of the main arguments against including jazz in public school music education is the perception that it is too difficult for students to learn. While it is true that jazz requires a high level of technical skill and musicianship, this should not be seen as a deterrent. Jazz can be an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience for students, and it has the potential to inspire a lifelong love of music. By providing students with the opportunity to learn about jazz, we can help to foster their creativity and develop their musical skills.

Another reason to include jazz in public school music education is its potential to foster cultural understanding and appreciation. Jazz is a global phenomenon, with fans and practitioners all over the world. By teaching students about jazz, we can help them to understand and appreciate the cultural influences that have shaped this art form, and encourage them to think critically about their own cultural heritage.

To conclude, jazz history education in public schools is an important and necessary component of music education. By exposing students to this rich and diverse art form, we can help them to develop their musical skills, foster cultural understanding and appreciation, and gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of black Americans. Whether they go on to become professional musicians or simply enjoy music as a hobby, students who learn about jazz will be better equipped to appreciate and understand the many ways in which music has shaped our world.

~Herschel McWilliams, Director of Live Jazz KC