Category: Music stories
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As long as I have been alive, I have known of Michael Jackson. When I was 5, Thriller came out. I was aware of the songs and music. And he had an amazing career, filled with hit after hit after hit. When you search out his best songs, somewhere in there you’ll find Thriller, Billie…
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It’s May and so, in the listening component of lessons this week, I decided to utilize The Imperial March. Yesterday, I had 3 different students say it was “joyful”, “exciting” and “cheerful”. Which got my brain spinning, as a music nerd and Star Wars nerd would do. I went to the score to do…
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One of the fun things that has been going on with the Harmanny Music Education social media pages is a 68 musical tournament to choose the favorite one! The first round happened this week, and here’s a recap video along with a round 2 preview! Voting for round 2 will be daily Monday-Thursday,…
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As February comes to a close, let’s take a moment to reflect on the studio theme for the month: “Heart and History.” Throughout this month, we’ve focused on the powerful contributions of African American musicians to the world of music. This time of reflection has allowed us to honor the richness of their legacies and…
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The Romantic period in classical music, which spanned from the early 19th century through the early 20th century, is known for its deep emotional expression and rich, lush harmonies. Composers during this time sought to evoke a wide range of human emotions through their music—everything from the tenderness of love to the intensity of grief,…
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When we think of iconic American music, one piece that often comes to mind is Scott Joplin’s Maple Leaf Rag. This ragtime composition, written in 1899, has become one of the most recognized and influential works in the genre. But what’s the story behind this timeless tune? Let’s take a deeper dive into its creation,…
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Gospel music holds a profound place in Black history, serving as a soundtrack for resilience, faith, and the fight for justice. Rooted in African spirituals, hymns, and work songs, gospel music has not only shaped the African American experience but has also influenced broader musical traditions across the world. Origins: A Sound of Hope The…
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Scott Joplin, often called the “King of Ragtime,” was a musical pioneer whose influence paved the way for the development of jazz. His innovative compositions and dedication to his craft helped shape American music at the turn of the 20th century. But who was Scott Joplin, and how did his music leave such a lasting…