Grade Level: PreK-5th
Duration: 30 minutes
Subject: Music, Jazz Culture

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Lesson Overview

This lesson introduces students to Buddy Bolden’s “Big Four” rhythm, the groundbreaking beat that shifted the course of American music. Through rhythm practice, listening, and storytelling, students will explore how this innovation helped make New Orleans the birthplace of jazz.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

1. Understand the significance of Buddy Bolden’s “Big Four” rhythm in jazz history.

2. Learn and practice the “Big Four” rhythm through clapping and percussion.

3. Explore the cultural impact of New Orleans jazz on music and community.

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Materials Needed

• Audio recordings of traditional jazz featuring the “Big Four” rhythm.

• Percussion instruments or use of body percussion (e.g., clapping, stomping).

• Optional: Visual aids of Buddy Bolden and New Orleans jazz bands.

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Lesson Steps

Introduction to New Orleans Jazz and Buddy Bolden (5 minutes)

• Start by asking students if they’ve heard of jazz music.

• Share that Buddy Bolden, known as the "Father of Jazz," created a rhythm called the “Big Four” that changed music forever.

• Explain that the “Big Four” added a syncopated beat, making jazz more lively and danceable.

• Show a picture of Buddy Bolden and describe his role as a leader in early New Orleans jazz.

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Learn the Big Four Rhythm (10 minutes)

• Teach students the rhythm:

  • Count aloud: “1… 2… 1 - 2 - 3 - FOUR!”

  • Clap or stomp on the fourth beat to emphasize it.

• Practice the rhythm slowly, then gradually increase the tempo.

• Add layers:

  • One group claps the “Big Four” rhythm while another adds a steady beat or improvises.

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Listen to the Rhythm in Jazz (5 minutes)

• Play a recording of a traditional jazz song featuring the “Big Four” rhythm.

• Ask students to listen for the syncopated beat and tap along.

• Discuss how this rhythm makes jazz feel exciting and unique.

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Group Improvisation Activity (10 minutes)

• Encourage students to create their own rhythms inspired by the “Big Four.”

• Take turns as a leader:

  • The leader plays a rhythm, and the group responds or adds layers.

• Form a mini jazz band using body percussion or instruments, with each student contributing to the rhythm.

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Group Reflection and Discussion (5 minutes)

• Ask students:

  • How does the “Big Four” rhythm make jazz feel different from other types of music?

  • Why do you think Buddy Bolden is remembered as the "Father of Jazz"?

• Discuss how jazz brings people together through its lively rhythms and improvisation.

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Extension Activities

• Music History: Research more about Buddy Bolden’s life and his contributions to jazz.

• Art Connection: Create artwork inspired by the energy and rhythm of the “Big Four.”

• Dance Activity: Pair the “Big Four” rhythm with simple dance moves to show how it inspires movement.

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Reflection Questions

• What was your favorite part of learning the “Big Four” rhythm?

• How does improvising a rhythm feel different from following a steady beat?

• Can you think of a time when music made you want to dance or move?

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Teacher/Parent Tips

• Use positive reinforcement to encourage participation in rhythm activities.

• Adjust the tempo of the rhythm based on students’ age and comfort level.

• Highlight the cultural importance of Buddy Bolden and his innovations in jazz.