Date: Sat, 14 Apr 2001 21:53:05 -0400 From: "Bill Otten" Subject: Re: Blues in the Schools
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>Date: Fri, 13 Apr 2001 01:26:40 EDT >From: ShMclend~ol.com >Subject: Blues in school
>I have seen postings here about a blues in school program >What is it ..how does it work ....how is it funded...I'm in a small Mt town >in western NC most years there is lil money for books let alone the >arts.....also how would you go about selling this to small minds this is the >buckle of the bible belt
Hi, I can tell you what I know of a similar program down here in St. Petersburg, Fl....we are fortunate to have a well known blues musician and harmonica player named Rock Bottom in the area. I am aware that he is active in a Blues in the Schools program down here and several times per year goes to area schools and explains what blues music is, where it came from in a historical perspective, gives examples with the harmonica and teaches a great deal about blues music. I am certain he approaches it from somewhat a historical perspective given the rich history built into the blues heritage. At the same time, the children are exposed to a music lesson and an appreciation for music as an art form.
In your area, (I went to college at Western Carolina University and my wife is from Waynesville, NC so I have a good grasp of the area) I'd pursue the same angles with obviously a regional influence. The music of the Appalachian region is steeped in tradition with folk, blues, and the intertwining of Scottish, and black influences. The Piedmont blues style is a style all its own and would make a great basis for a presentation.
These programs don't take a lot of finances, more, they take the time and desire of individuals serious enough about the preservation of the various music styles willing to give in order to further the art. Financially, the district should certainly pay enough to cover the expenses in travel and a stipend or honoraria for the musician's time. Typically, I think you'd find musicians willing to do this for small amounts, but remember that they're trying to support themselves too. I could certainly get the details of how the program is funded if you'd like.
I see no conflict with presenting these ideas to the 'small minds' of the bible belt, which I find to be an unfortunate characterization. Much folk and blues derives from the spiritual past of gospel and field chants amongst slaves, who sang to pass the time and in many instances came directly from gospel favorites. With as rich a common history as the mountains and music share, I don't think it'd be tough to promote the idea to the proper people. Nothing ventured is nothing gained.
>I have seen postings here about a blues in school program >What is it ..how does it work ....how is it funded...I'm in a small Mt town >in western NC most years there is lil money for books let alone the >arts.....also how would you go about selling this to small minds this is the >buckle of the bible belt
Hi,
I can tell you what I know of a similar program down here in St. Petersburg, Fl....we are fortunate to have a well known blues musician and harmonica player named Rock Bottom in the area. I am aware that he is active in a Blues in the Schools program down here and several times per year goes to area schools and explains what blues music is, where it came from in a historical perspective, gives examples with the harmonica and teaches a great deal about blues music. I am certain he approaches it from somewhat a historical perspective given the rich history built into the blues heritage. At the same time, the children are exposed to a music lesson and an appreciation for music as an art form.
In your area, (I went to college at Western Carolina University and my wife is from Waynesville, NC so I have a good grasp of the area) I'd pursue the same angles with obviously a regional influence. The music of the Appalachian region is steeped in tradition with folk, blues, and the intertwining of Scottish, and black influences. The Piedmont blues style is a style all its own and would make a great basis for a presentation.
These programs don't take a lot of finances, more, they take the time and desire of individuals serious enough about the preservation of the various music styles willing to give in order to further the art. Financially, the district should certainly pay enough to cover the expenses in travel and a stipend or honoraria for the musician's time. Typically, I think you'd find musicians willing to do this for small amounts, but remember that they're trying to support themselves too. I could certainly get the details of how the program is funded if you'd like.
I see no conflict with presenting these ideas to the 'small minds' of the bible belt, which I find to be an unfortunate characterization. Much folk and blues derives from the spiritual past of gospel and field chants amongst slaves, who sang to pass the time and in many instances came directly from gospel favorites. With as rich a common history as the mountains and music share, I don't think it'd be tough to promote the idea to the proper people. Nothing ventured is nothing gained.
