When it comes to introducing children to the world of music, particularly jazz, Duke Ellington is a name that stands tall. His contributions to music, especially in shaping jazz as an influential genre, are monumental. This worksheet is designed to make learning about Duke Ellington both educational and fun for kids. We'll explore his life, music, and legacy through various engaging activities.
Who Was Duke Ellington?
Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington (April 29, 1899 – May 24, 1974) was an American composer, pianist, and bandleader. His career spanned more than 50 years, during which he composed over a thousand songs, many of which have become jazz standards. Here's a brief overview:
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C.
- Early Influence: Ellington learned to play piano at the age of seven and started to get serious about music after hearing and meeting ragtime pianist Harvey Brooks.
- Major Contributions: Ellington's orchestra was known for its distinctive, sophisticated sound, which influenced future generations of musicians.
Learning Activities
Listening Exercise
Let’s start with listening to some of Duke Ellington’s most famous compositions:
- “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)”
- “Take the ‘A’ Train”
- “Satin Doll”
Here’s what to do:
- Listen to each song carefully.
- Note down what instruments you can identify.
- Describe how the music makes you feel.
🎵 Note: Listening to jazz music can help children develop their ability to appreciate different musical styles and learn about rhythm and harmony.
Color and Learn
We’re going to have some fun with coloring! Here’s a simple outline of Duke Ellington playing the piano:
Instructions:
- Color the piano keys with black and white.
- Choose colors for Duke’s suit and the background.
- Label the parts of the piano you know!
Understanding Jazz
Since Duke Ellington was a jazz icon, it’s crucial for kids to understand what jazz is:
- Improvisation: Musicians make up parts of the song as they play.
- Swing: A unique rhythmic feel that’s like a dance in the music.
- Scat Singing: Singing without words, using sounds and syllables instead.
Connect the Dots
Here’s a fun activity to bring Duke Ellington’s legacy into focus:
| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
Connect the dots starting with “A” and ending with “I” to reveal an image related to Duke Ellington. Color the image afterwards!
By now, you've had a taste of Duke Ellington's world through listening, coloring, learning about jazz, and even some dot-to-dot fun. This journey isn't just about exploring the life of one man; it's about igniting a passion for music, history, and cultural appreciation in young minds. Duke Ellington’s music was not only groundbreaking for its time but continues to inspire musicians and listeners around the world. His journey from Washington, D.C., to international fame showcases dedication, innovation, and the profound impact one person can have on culture. Through these activities, we've aimed to capture his essence, his contributions, and the joy of jazz, hoping to leave a lasting impression on young learners.
What instruments did Duke Ellington play?
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Duke Ellington primarily played the piano, but he was also known to compose for and lead a large ensemble of other instruments, including trumpets, trombones, saxophones, and more.
How can jazz be fun for children?
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Jazz can be fun for children through its infectious rhythms, the creative aspect of improvisation, and the way it can engage their imagination with its storytelling-like nature through music.
What are some other activities related to Duke Ellington?
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Other activities could include reading biographies or children’s books about Duke Ellington, attending a jazz concert, or even trying to play simple jazz-inspired tunes on a keyboard or a toy instrument.
