At its core, the “blues” is derived from feelings–often feelings related to personal relationships, suffering, or social issues. However, blues compositions can also be joyous–maybe about a new love, a new car, a new job, or even your favorite band! In this introductory lesson, students will explore their preconceived notions of “blues music” and learn about its foundational characteristics (lyrics, form, instrumentation, scales) through the contributions of two important blueswomen: Big Mama Thornton and Elizabeth Cotten. After listening to, analyzing, interpreting, and comparing two distinct examples of blues music, students will have a chance to sing along with Big Mama!

Lesson Paths & Learning Objectives

1. What Is the Blues?

   • Explain (in general terms) how and when blues music became a prominent musical form in the United States
   • Identify common song topics and general stylistic characteristics of the blues
   • 20+ minutes

2. The Blues Isn't Always Blue

   • Identify similarities and differences between the ways in which music elements and expressive qualities are used in two blues compositions (harmonic structure, lyrical structure, timbre, style, instrumentation, etc.)
   • 30+ minutes

3. Singing with Big Mama Thornton!

   • Expressively sing a song in the blues style and describe how blues music is usually learned (and how it differs from traditional choral singing).
   • 20+ minutes