Let’s look at the project first. You’re asked to write a 750 – 1000 word essay on the role that music has played in your life. Let’s talk about that….

 You follow the directions carefully – you’re asked a series of specific questions – it’s important to answer them all or at least most of them.  That will give you paper direction and focus – much easier than just sitting down with a blank screen and wondering what to write.

 What music do you associate with childhood? How did/does this music make you feel? How do your choices reflect your childhood experiences?  What music do you associate with adolescence? Was this music a way to fit in or rebel?  What music do you associate with comfort? How do these songs help you deal with disappointment or stress?  What music do you associate with happiness? Why?

 Talks about styles or genres of music and also about standard bearers… the key figures who have come to represent musical styles over the years.  Let’s look at some of the main musical genres and discuss standard bearers and your own taste.

 Jazz  Blues  Rock ‘n Roll  Folk  Hard Rock  Hip Hop  Rap  Gospel  Country  Pop  New Age  World Music  Digital Music

 Styles of music  Songs or performers

 What do the standard bearers communicate about the time, place, culture, influences, and circumstances that lead to these musical expressions?