Overview Lesson Plan
The American Songbook

The scene at the legendary Savoy Ballroom in Harlem during the 1930s, where great popular music and non-stop dancing took place from the 1920s through the 1950s. In contrast to the ‘whites only’ policy of the Cotton Club—where black performers could be seen but not seated—the Savoy Ballroom was integrated and white and black Americans enjoy popular music and dancing together.
source: Photofest

The lesson focuses on the term “popular music.” Students generally think that this refers to “their music.” The introductory lesson broadens the student’s concept of the term.

Grades 5–8
1 Lesson Plus Materials
Download the Lesson Plan

First Episode Lesson Plans
Putting on the Tail Fins (1950s–1960s)

An ideal suburban family as portrayed in a 1959 RCA advertisement, all enjoying the same entertainment together.
source: Photofest

Building on the “popular music” concept in the Overview, students will discover the broadening gap between adults and teens brought about by Rock-n-Roll. Instrumentation and arrangement play a large part in this unit, as does structural analysis.
Grades 5–8
4 Lessons Plus Materials
Download the Lesson Plans

Second Episode Lesson Plans
Best Band in the Land (1940s)

Drummer Gene Krupa and trumpeter Roy Eldridge crossed color lines to play popular music in support of the troops during World War II.
source: Photofest

Popular music succeeded in unifying America during World War II. Students will explore how the music of this era helped bolster the spirits of our nation, blurred “color lines” in a time of segregation, and painted a mood with melody and words for those in battle, and those at home waiting for their safe return.
Grades 5–8
3 Lessons Plus Materials
Download the Lesson Plans

Third Episode Lesson Plans
A New Step Every Day (1920s–early 1930s)

A madcap couple from the 1920s demonstrates how to dance the Charleston, one of the many Jazz Age dance crazes that kept musicians employed and speakeasies jumping.
source: Photofest

Just as popular music unified our nation during the war, the music of the Depression era created an avenue for escape from the worries of the day. Students will analyze how humorous lyrics, catchy melodies and fast-paced rhythms created a sense of merriment, allowing a stressed population to relax.
Grades 5–8
3 Lessons Plus Materials
Download the Lesson Plans