Goals:  Understand the purpose of gospel music by examining lyrical meaning and cultural values.

Objectives:  Students will be able to:

1. Define gospel music.
2. Differentiate between Anglo and African American gospel.
3. Discuss the messages (lyrics) found in gospel songs.
4. Identify instrumentation used in various gospel songs.

Questions to be answered:

1. How do the Anglo and African American gospel styles differ?
2. What are the functions of gospel music?
3. What is the purpose of the lyrics in gospel music?
4. What are some instruments used in gospel music?
5. Name examples of music from other cultures that serve some of the same functions as gospel music.

Suggested Methods and Activities:

1. Students research and listen to various gospel songs and determine whether they are Anglo or African American gospel styles. Refer to Gospel Music Box and resources listed at:
   • Go to the Gospel Unit and listen to the audio clips
   • The Gospel according to Brother Michael
   • Gosepl and Spirituals: Sacred Music
   • Family Music Making
     
   • The Music District
     
   • A singing Stream: A Black Family Chronicle
     
   • Sweet Is the Day: A Sacred Harp Family Portrait
     
   • Powerhouse for God
     
   • Fannie Bell Chapman: Gospel Singer
     

   *This activity most appropriate for grades 7-10.

2. Students listen to a gospel song by Thomas Dorsey and focus on the lyrics/text. Discuss whether the song is sacred and what the message is in the song.  Also discuss Thomas Dorsey’s role in gospel music. Consider the lyrics for Anglo gospel traditions; what are some of the similarities and differences among different groups? Visit links:
   • This Far By Faith: Thomas Dorsey
   • Gospel and Spirituals: Sacred Music
   • Family Music Making
     

   *This activity most appropriate for grades 6-10.

3. Students discuss the various instruments used in gospel music. Invite a gospel musician to the class. List and research the various instruments.  Listen to gospel music online and have students identify the instruments in the music.
   Links for resources:
   • Psalms: African-American Gospel Group
   • Matney Sisters: Siouxland, Anglo-American gospel and Boogie-Woogie
   • Clarence Williams and the Rising Sons
   • Gospel Resources: FTA roster
     

   *This activity may be used with all grade levels.

4. Students explore the influences of gospel music on other forms of American music. What aspects of gospel have influenced soul music, rap, hiphop, or other styles? Research online music sources and give a presentation with musical illustrations.
   • The Music District
     
   • A Singing Stream: A Black Family Chronicle
     
   • Pizza Pizza Daddy-O

*This activity most appropriate for grades 9-12.