John Coltrane
Grades 9 - 12

Lesson #4
The Jazz Heritage in Philadelphia

This lesson affords students an opportunity to learn about the great jazz legacy created by some of the world’s most celebrated musicians who were born in or who made Philadelphia their home. Students will learn the history and music of legends such as John Coltrane, Benny Golson and others, as well as listen and sing to live jazz music presented by a guest Philadelphia jazz musician.


Objective

  • Students will learn repertoire and various styles of jazz through the works of Philadelphia jazz musicians known for these styles

Activity

  1. Led by a guest Philadelphia jazz musician, students will hear and sing selected jazz works.
  2. Students will use jazz techniques such as scat and improvisation.
  3. Brief history of jazz in Philadelphia and some of the famous jazz places in and around the Kimmel Center area.

Teacher Follow-Up
Materials with activities and suggestions for further studies will be given at the conclusion of the class.

Student Activity
The recording of "My Favorite Things" was the debut of the John Coltrane Quartet. Answer the following:

  • What year did they begin?
  • Who were the other three musicians?
  • Which musician also has a Philadelphia connection to jazz?
  • Coltrane played two types of saxophones. What are they and which one was played in "My Favorite Things"?

Prep Period
Before coming to the class, use the links below to familiarize yourself with the music covered in the lesson.

National Standards

Music

  • Standard 1: Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music
  • Standard 6: Listening to, analyzing and describing music
  • Standard 9: Understanding music in relation to history and culture.
Technology
  • NT.K-12.5 Technology Research Tools