Bringing the Blues to the Classroom: Frontier Middle School Embraces Musical Diversity

In a captivating display of musical artistry, the Mid-Ohio Valley Blues, Jazz, & Folk Music Society (BJFM) brought its acclaimed Blues in Schools program to Frontier Middle School, introducing students to the rich history and soulful essence of the blues genre. The event, which featured renowned blues musicians Tas Cru and Mary Ann Casale, aimed to ignite a passion for this uniquely American form of music among the young audience.

Empowering Students through the Power of the Blues

Exploring the Roots and Significance of the Blues

The Blues in Schools program began with an engaging presentation that delved into the origins and significance of the blues. Cru and Casale, both seasoned blues performers, captivated the students with their knowledge and enthusiasm. They explained how the blues emerged from the experiences and struggles of African Americans, serving as a powerful means of expression and a reflection of the human condition. The students were encouraged to explore the emotional depth and personal narratives that lie at the heart of the blues, fostering a deeper appreciation for this musical genre.

Hands-on Harmonica Masterclass

One of the highlights of the assembly was the interactive harmonica demonstration led by Cru and Casale. They invited Frontier School's Physical Education teacher Adam Olson and middle school student Isabella Felter to join them on stage, guiding them through the fundamentals of playing the harmonica. Cru provided a masterclass on holding the instrument and producing the different notes, while Casale and Cru led Olson and Felter in a call-and-response blues-style performance. This hands-on experience allowed the students to not only witness the blues in action but also to actively participate in its creation, fostering a deeper connection to the music.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Musicians

The Blues in Schools program at Frontier Middle School was met with enthusiasm and excitement from both the students and the school's music educator, Shirelle Barnett. Barnett expressed her delight in having the BJFM group visit, noting that the school has a significant percentage of students enrolled in the band program. She expressed her hope that the exposure to the blues would further enrich the students' musical experiences and inspire them to explore this uniquely American art form.

Continuing the Blues Legacy

To conclude the Blues in Schools tour, Cru and Casale will be performing a coffee-house-style concert at the Gun Room restaurant at the Lafayette Hotel in Marietta, Ohio. This event will provide the community with an opportunity to experience the blues firsthand and support the ongoing efforts of the BJFM Society to bring this musical tradition to the region.The Blues in Schools program at Frontier Middle School was a resounding success, igniting a spark of interest and appreciation for the blues among the students. By introducing them to the rich history, emotional depth, and cultural significance of this genre, the BJFM Society has taken a significant step in ensuring that the legacy of the blues continues to thrive and inspire future generations of musicians and music enthusiasts.