C LASS 4: Discovering, Uncovering and Appreciating the Music in Our

World

Class Instructor:
Dan Walker has been a music and drama teacher for a public high school in New York State
for 4 years. Dan graduated from The College of Saint Rose with a Bachelor's Degree in Music
Education with a minor in Theatre and his Masters Degree in Music Education was earned
from Buffalo State College. Dan has also been teaching these Au Pair Courses for 0ver 10
years which helped him become the teacher he is today. Dan became a teacher because of
his love for music, and believes everyone can practice or enjoy the arts, however they wish.

Class Objective:
This course is to have students independently research and explore different musical facets.
Students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of how music came to be through research and
exploration
- Demonstrate an understanding of musical genres or specifically one genre. Students will
research and add opinions to convey an argument.
- Demonstrate how they specifically appreciate music. Students will give examples of how
they respond to music and how it can change emotion.
- Explain what music has or could do for them, if anything. Some people NEED music to
succeed.

Class Directions:
If you open the Document Outline on the left, you will see 3 parts that you will need to
complete in full. Each Part will have separate directions. Part 1 and 2 will need internet
sources (at least 5 sources for EACH Part). Therefore, I have included a table for you to use
for each Parts sources (You will see this labeled under each Part). Part 3 will be purely
opinion and a first person narrative of you. Have fun with your research and include as much
detail as possible.

It is suggested that you label your paper in parts and email ONE document to
danielwalker9789@gmail.com

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Part 1: Where did music come from?
Directions:
In order to understand music today, we need to be able to understand where it came from and
why. Music is one of our earliest artforms, and yet we really only touch the surface with what
music we hear on the radio. In an essay format, please research the origins of music,
specifically the Gregorian era. This essay should have a minimum of 500 words, and sources
are to be included. At least 5 sources are required. The “source table” is below, which you can
use or list your sources under “Work Cited”

A good quality essay usually has an introduction paragraph, between 3 and 5 body paragraphs,
and a final conclusion paragraph. On a separate page is where your “Source table” or “Work
Cited” should be included.

*Sources from Wikipedia will not be accepted

The origins of music.

Music is one of humanity's oldest forms of expression and has evolved throughout history.
Among its numerous manifestations, sacred music has had a crucial role in the formation of
Western culture. One of the most influential periods in music history is the Gregorian era, which
developed in the Middle Ages and laid the foundation for modern Western music. This essay will
examine the origins of Gregorian chant, its main characteristics, its impact on later music, and its
relevance today.

Gregorian chant developed in the Catholic Church during the Early Middle Ages, mainly between
the 9th and 10th centuries. Its name comes from Pope Gregory I (590-604), who, according to
tradition, organized and systematized the liturgical chants of the church. However, modern
studies suggest that Gregorian chant was not composed directly by Gregory I, but rather that its
compilation and development occurred under the influence of him and his successors (Hiley,
1993). This song was inspired by ancient Jewish and Roman musical traditions, demonstrating
the cultural interconnection between different civilizations.
Gregorian chant is characterized by its monodic interpretation, that is, a single melodic line
without instrumental accompaniment. It was sung in Latin and followed a system of pneumatic
notation, a precursor to the modern system of musical writing. Its rhythm is free, based on the
natural accentuation of the text, which gives it an ethereal and meditative character (Apel, 1958).
In addition, modal scales, known as Gregorian modes, were used, which directly influenced
medieval and Renaissance music.

The impact of Gregorian chant on Western music is unquestionable. In the 9th century, with the
introduction of polyphony, Gregorian chants began to serve as the basis for new polyphonic
compositions, giving rise to genres such as organum (Taruskin, 2005). During the Renaissance,
although sacred music evolved into more complex forms, Gregorian structures and melodies
continued to be a source of inspiration. Even today, Gregorian chant continues to be studied and
practiced, especially in religious and academic settings, due to its historical and aesthetic value.
Despite the changes that have occurred in music over the centuries, Gregorian chant retains its
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relevance in the modern world. Its use in the Catholic liturgy and in monastic communities
demonstrates its continuing role in Christian spirituality. Furthermore, its impact on classical
music and contemporary genres, such as ambience music and meditative music, underlines its
lasting influence (Kelly, 2011). Furthermore, musicological research continues to reveal new
aspects of its history and technique, securing its place in the study of music.

In conclusion, the Gregorian era represents a crucial moment in the history of music, as it laid
the foundations for the development of musical notation and the evolution of sacred music. Its
influence extends from the Middle Ages to the present, remaining a benchmark of beauty,
spirituality and musical sophistication. Understanding its origins and its impact on Western music
allows us to appreciate the depth of this artistic expression and its role in the cultural history of
humanity.

Notes:
 Sacred music: Religious music created for worship, such as Gregorian chant in the Catholic Church.

 Early Middle Ages: Period of European history (5th-10th centuries) in which Christianity was consolidated
and liturgical music developed.

 Pneumatic notation system: First musical writing system that used symbols called neumes to indicate the
melody, without specifying the exact rhythm.

 Polyphony: Musical style with several independent voices that evolved from monodic Gregorian chant.

 Organum: First form of medieval polyphony, where additional voices were added to Gregorian chant at
parallel intervals.

Example of Source table

Apel, Willi. Gregorian Chant. Indiana University Press, 1958.

Hiley, David. Western Plainchant: A Handbook. Clarendon Press, 1993.
Kelly, Thomas Forrest. Capturing Music: The Story of Notation. W. W.
Norton & Company, 2011.
Taruskin, Richard. The Oxford History of Western Music, Volume 1:
Music from the Earliest Notations to the Sixteenth Century. Oxford
University Press, 2005.
Treitler, Leo. With Voice and Pen: Coming to Know Medieval Song and
How It Was Made. Oxford University Press, 2003.

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Part 2: Exploring Genres and their
Origins
Directions:
After you have discovered and uncovered the earliest genre of music, the Gregorian chant (at
least in Western Music), now is the time for you to discover a genre of your choosing!
There are so many genres in today’s music, that usually are spurred from proceeding genres.
For example, rock and roll came from the collision of folk, jazz, and blues music. In a detailed
essay, please research a genre of music of your choosing. This can be a genre from your home
country or from anywhere at any time in the world. This essay should have a minimum of 500
words, and sources are to be included. At least 5 sources are required. The “source table” is
below, which you can use or list your sources under “Work Cited.”

A good quality essay usually has an introduction paragraph, between 3 and 5 body paragraphs,
and a final conclusion paragraph. On a separate page is where your “Source table” or “Work
Cited” should be included.

*Sources from Wikipedia will not be accepted

The Jazz.

Music is a reflection of society and its transformations over time. Among the most influential and
revolutionary genres in history is jazz, a form of musical expression born in the United States at
the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century. Its evolution has been marked by
the fusion of cultures, experimentation and limitless creativity. In this essay, we will explore the
origins of jazz, its main characteristics, its impact on global music and culture, and its relevance
today.

Jazz emerged in New Orleans, a city with great cultural diversity due to its African, European
and Creole heritage. Its origin is closely linked to the music of African slaves in the United
States, who used complex rhythms and call-and-response patterns in their works and spiritual
songs. As the African American community gained more access to musical instruments, such as
the trumpet and piano, they began to fuse these elements with military band music and the
blues, giving rise to jazz (Gioia, 2011).

One of the main characteristics of jazz is improvisation. Unlike other musical genres in which
compositions follow rigid structures, jazz allows musicians to interpret and modify the music in
the moment, resulting in a dynamic and constantly evolving sound (Schuller, 1968). In addition, it
uses sophisticated scales and harmonies, including the use of "swing", a syncopated rhythm that
generates a feeling of fluidity and energy.

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The impact of jazz on global music and culture has been immense. During the 1920s, known as
the "Jazz Age", this genre became the symbol of a generation seeking to break with established
traditions. Artists such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington brought jazz to the international
stage, influencing musicians of all genres, from classical music to rock (DeVeaux, 1997).
Additionally, jazz played an important role in the civil rights movements in the United States, as it
offered African American musicians a platform to express themselves and challenge the social
norms of the time.

Throughout the 20th century, jazz continued to evolve into different subgenres, such as bebop,
cool jazz, free jazz, and jazz fusion, each with its own unique style and characteristics. Today,
jazz remains a major influence on contemporary music, and its legacy can be seen in hip-hop,
funk, and electronic music. Jazz festivals around the world celebrate the richness of this genre,
and young musicians continue to explore new forms of expression through it (Gridley, 2009).

In conclusion, jazz is much more than a musical genre; It is a cultural manifestation that has
transcended borders and eras. Its history reflects the struggle, creativity and innovation of those
who have interpreted and developed it. Thanks to its ability to adapt and evolve, jazz remains a
vital part of the musical landscape and a testament to the power of music to bring people
together.

Notes:
I gave me the opportunity of hearing the songs What a wonderful world of Louis
Armstrong and I don´t mean a thing of Duke Ellington and I think is a fabulous
music and is not definitely how I was imagining. The first one likes me so much for
the perspective the song show us about our world, is a positive message; but, the
second one likes me more for how are they using different instruments like violin or
saxophone, and personally, I have always been a fan of classical music.

Example of Source table

DeVeaux, Scott. The Birth of Bebop: A Social and Musical History.
University of California Press, 1997.
Gioia, Ted. The History of Jazz. Oxford University Press, 2011.
Gridley, Mark C. Jazz Styles: History and Analysis. Pearson, 2009.
Schuller, Gunther. Early Jazz: Its Roots and Musical Development.
Oxford University Press, 1968.
Shipton, Alyn. A New History of Jazz. Bloomsbury Publishing, 2007.

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Part 3: Music Appreciation
Directions:
So far you have identified and investigated the origin and a genre of music. You're almost done!
Being a teacher, I have learned to always save the best for last, so here it is!
In this section, you will provide a short essay on music appreciation. This can include why music
is important to you, if it has ever helped you go through a tough time, whether you listen to an
artist because of your loyalty or love of the music, how you discovered your favorite artists, and
what concerts or shows you may have seen live. Also include how music can help you
emotionally or even physically, like using music to help you get through a workout. Finally,
include if you have any influence for your host child’s/ children music taste. Do they like your
music? Do you like their music? Do you let them listen to explicit material? If they are infants, do
they listen to classical music while they sleep?
This essay should have a minimum of 500 words however, no sources are needed, this is just an
opinion piece.

A good quality essay FOR THIS PART usually has an introduction paragraph, between 2 and 4
body paragraphs, and a final conclusion paragraph.

For as long as I can remember, music has been an essential part of my life. In my family, he always had a
special place; It was not only a background sound, but a way to share happy moments and strengthen our
bonds. Since I was a child, I participated in singing competitions at my schools, and my brothers and I
were part of a choir for several years. I fondly remember how we struggled to learn new songs and how,
together, we managed to perform one in Latin. We didn't speak the language, but that song became a
symbol of our dedication and love for music.

However, music was also linked to one of the most difficult moments of our lives. Our music teacher, who
not only taught us how to sing but was a very close friend to our family, passed away from brain cancer.
His departure left us with such a big void that, for a time, we walked away from music. It hurt us to
remember those happy moments we had shared with him. But over time, the wounds healed, and we
realized that what was once a painful reminder of his absence was transformed into a treasure of happy
memories. Although we never returned to the choir, little by little we began to listen to music again, and
instead of sadness, it brought us comfort.

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Over the years, music has continued to accompany me at different stages of my life. One of the most
special memories I have is going with my sister to a CD9 concert, a youth band that she loved. The
emotion of sharing that experience together was unforgettable. Curiously, I really liked the band that
opened the concert, called Pijama, but unfortunately they never became famous outside of our state,
Coahuila. Another concert that had a special meaning for me was when my mom took me to see Las
Flans, a pop group from the 80s that I love. It was a long journey, but it was worth every moment,
especially because that year, 2019, was one of the most difficult for me. She was dealing with health
issues like polycystic ovary syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, insulin resistance, and stress-reactive
hypoglycemia. Despite everything, that night was magical and full of nostalgia, since it was the group's
last performance.

Most recently, I had the opportunity to attend a Taylor Swift concert in Mexico City, and it was simply
wonderful. Seeing an artist that I admire so much and sharing the energy of the audience was a unique
experience. Music has not only been a source of joy in my life, but also a refuge during difficult times.
When I feel nervous or stressed, classical music helps me calm down and find balance.

Now, in my role as an au pair, music also plays an important role. With my host children, I have shared
songs by Cri Cri, a very popular children's artist in Mexico. They're still little, so we haven't explored other
genres, but I like to think that, in some way, I'm sharing a little piece of my culture with them through
music.

In conclusion, music has been a common thread in my life, uniting memories, emotions and experiences.
It has accompanied me in moments of happiness, sadness, struggle and celebration. No matter how
many years pass or how many genres I discover, I will always find in music a refuge and a link with my
past, my present and my future.

A Message from the Instructor:

Thank you for choosing this course and completing this home learning. I hope that each
and everyone of you has discovered, uncovered, or have appreciated some sort of
musical idea throughout this assignment. If you have any questions, please feel free to
email me any! I look forward to your material and will respond when you have completed
all the work.

Please include in the email subject “Au Pair Music Work” when you submit your
work. It is suggested that you label your paper in parts and email ONE document
to danielwalker9789@gmail.com