Grade Level: PreK-5th
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Subject: Music, Jazz Culture

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Lesson Overview

In this lesson, students will explore the lively New Orleans jazz tune “Lil’ Liza Jane.” Through call-and-response singing and rhythmic activities, they’ll connect with the communal and improvisational spirit of jazz.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

1. Understand the tradition of call-and-response in New Orleans jazz.

2. Sing and respond to the melody of “Lil’ Liza Jane.”

3. Participate in rhythm and movement activities inspired by the song.

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Materials Needed

• Lyrics or recording of “Lil’ Liza Jane.”

• Percussion instruments (optional, such as tambourines, shakers, or drums).

• Open space for group participation.

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Lesson Steps

Introduction to Call-and-Response and 'Lil' Liza Jane' (5 minutes)

• Start by explaining the concept of call-and-response:

  • One person sings or plays a phrase (the call).

  • The group responds with a repeated phrase or rhythm (the response).

• Share that “Lil’ Liza Jane” is a classic New Orleans jazz song known for its energetic call-and-response structure.

• Play a short snippet of the song to familiarize students with the melody and rhythm.

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Learn and Practice the Call-and-Response (10 minutes)

• Teach the call-and-response pattern:

  • Leader sings: “Oh, Lil’ Liza”

  • Group responds: “Lil’ Liza Jane!”

• Practice singing the phrase together, alternating roles between leader and group.

• Gradually add rhythmic clapping or percussion to enhance the response.

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Add Movement and Rhythm (10 minutes)

• Encourage students to move to the rhythm of the song:

  • Clap, stomp, or sway in time with the beat.

  • Optionally, use scarves or ribbons to add dynamic movement.

• Form a mini parade or circle where students take turns leading the call while others respond.

• Encourage improvisation by letting leaders create their own variations of the call.

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Group Reflection and Cool Down (5 minutes)

• Ask students:

  • How did it feel to take turns leading and responding?

  • Why do you think call-and-response is a fun way to make music together?

• Discuss how “Lil’ Liza Jane” captures the energy and joy of New Orleans jazz.

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Extension Activities

• Instrument Exploration: Add percussion instruments to mimic a jazz band playing along with the call-and-response.

• Creative Writing: Let students create their own lyrics for the call-and-response format.

• Art Connection: Have students draw a jazz band performing “Lil’ Liza Jane.”

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Reflection Questions

• What did you enjoy most about singing “Lil’ Liza Jane”?

• How does the call-and-response make the song more interactive?

• Can you think of another song that uses call-and-response?

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Teacher/Parent Tips

• Keep the call-and-response simple for younger students to ensure participation.

• Reinforce the rhythm by modeling claps or stomps during the response.

• Emphasize the improvisational and fun nature of New Orleans jazz to encourage creativity.