American Musician Webquest

AMERICAN MUSICIAN WEBQUEST

INTRODUCTION:

The famous Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC has decided to create a new exhibit. Featuring wax figures, the focus of the exhibit is American composers and musicians. It will highlight music greats like Scott Joplin, Duke Ellington, Francis Scott Key and Ella Fitzgerald.

TASK:

Working with partners, you will research the life and works of a selected musician. Then, you will create a biographical poster of that person that will be displayed alongside the wax figurines. The poster should include the following information:

a picture of the musician
biographical information (name, dates of birth and death, birthplace)
musical training
what instruments he or she played/composed for
known for what musical styles (show tunes, jazz, Americana, ragtime, scat, etc.)
list of 3 or more of his/her works
any other interesting facts about his/her life

PROCESS:

STEP 1: Listen and Read. Use the website list to read online articles and listen to samples of his or her work. Be sure to look at ALL of the sites provided.

STEP 2: Use Google Image Search to locate a full-size image of your musician. Print it out.

STEP 3: Design your poster. Remember to include a picture, biographical information, information about instruments played and styles of his/her music, list of works, and any other interesting facts.

EVALUATION:

Your poster will be evaluated for accuracy of information, spelling and grammar, and creativity.