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Dear Educator,
Humans like music. In fact, scientists suspect we have been making music for at least 40,000 years or so, if not longer. Some of the earliest bone pipes date to between 39,000 and 43,000 years ago. But early human ancestors, such as Neanderthals, appear to have had the anatomy to sing. And there is evidence that about 12,000 years ago, humans hit rock structures in caves that made sounds like gongs. Perhaps they were creating a rhythm. Certainly, modern humans love music, and it is a big, money-making industry. The history of modern music is bursting with important contributions by African Americans—so much so, that entire music genres are associated with Black America, such as the blues, jazz, and hip-hip or rap. This week we are taking a look at some pioneers in these genres, as well as the Harlem Renaissance, which featured musicians, artists, and writers, all creating in New York City during the 1920s-1930s.
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