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Music ETDs
Publication Date
7-2-2012
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to provide music educators with suggestions of how to make the blues a part of their instruction and present this unique art form as a vibrant and living' genre critical to the understanding of our own American musical heritage. This thesis explores the music, history and culture, viewing 'music as culture,' and the African-American tradition whose contribution defines so much of our American music. It discusses the ways in which the blues can fit into a comprehensive and discipline-based approach to music education that satisfies the goals as set forth by the National Standards for Music Education and, in so doing, broaden educators' pedagogical approach to teaching the blues. This discussion stresses the importance of creating a classroom culture that parallels the way music is learned and practiced in the blues community, fostering an authentic understanding of the blues through singing, listening, movement, improvisation, composition, and, ultimately, performing. It is shown how a study of the blues can provide our students with new practical possibilities and perspectives for experiencing and generating music.
Degree Name
Music
Level of Degree
Masters
Department Name
Department of Music
First Committee Member (Chair)
Carlow, Regina
Second Committee Member
Kostur, Glenn
Language
English
Keywords
Blues (Music)-- Instruction and study, Multicultural education
Document Type
Thesis
Recommended Citation
Balagurchik, James. "A Comprehensive Approach to Teaching the Blues in the Music Classroom." (2012). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/mus_etds/2