What is it about?
This article discusses how general music classes can be a place for students to have open and honest discussions about the complex societal, cultural, and historical contexts of music. It provides music educators with resources and ideas, focusing on lyrics and songs from Rhiannon Giddens’ album Freedom Highway to explore topics like race, culture, and justice in the classroom.
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Why is it important?
Music is often a great springboard for discussions about controversial topics. Giddens' poignant lyrics and musical style are an excellent point of entry for courageous conversations. The article gives teachers practical ideas for how to frame this work in a general music class.
Perspectives
Rhiannon Giddens' album Freedom Highway is a brilliant, justice-oriented album, Every song is a different lesson.
Susan Davis
City University of New York System
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Freedom Highway: Lessons in Courage and Justice From Rhiannon Giddens, Journal of General Music Education, November 2022, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/27527646221127972.
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