In this performance students will learn about the history of popular music in America from the early Pioneer Days of Abraham Lincoln’s youth through Lincoln’s presidency and the end of the Civil War.
We will discuss how the popular music of the time expressed the culture and concerns of the day. Stephen Foster was the first pop star in our country, publishing nearly 1,200 songs during his lifetime, many of which we still sing today. The music presented tells the story of Stephen Foster’s works, from his first hits “Oh, Susanna!” and “Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair,” to his many songs for minstrel shows, popular in the 1850’s, and his large collection of Civil War songs and the songs published after Stephen Foster’s death.
Group discussion will feature the many connections between music and culture, and how Stephen Foster’s music is still a part of our culture today. One musician instructor from Raleigh Symphony Orchestra will teach one class of up to 150 students assembly-style for 45 minutes.
This program is recommended for 4th – 5th grade classes.
Artist Background
Raleigh Symphony Orchestra has been Raleigh’s community orchestra since 1979, performing full orchestra and chamber music concerts throughout the area. Our orchestra members represent all walks of life, and many are local music educators who work with young students. We seek to foster interest in learning about music in young people, and encourage youth participation in music programs. Each year we hold a Rising Stars Concerto Competition, from which selected high school and college artists are chosen to perform in a concert as featured soloists with the orchestra.
Search Criteria
- Program Type: Performance
- Discipline: Music
- Grade Level: Elementary
- Accepts bookings in Johnston County
