Gotta Be Jazz

Gotta Be Jazz! A Jazz History Musical Revue for Grades 4-8

What's that sound? It's creative, expressive, surprising, and uniquely American. Gotta Be Jazz! takes students on an exciting musical journey through the history of jazz, exploring the artists, styles, and innovations that transformed music around the world.

Beginning in New Orleans and traveling up the Mississippi River through St. Louis and Chicago, students discover how jazz evolved from its roots into one of the most influential musical genres ever created. Along the way, they'll meet legendary performers with unforgettable nicknames like Dizzy, Satchmo, Lady Day, Jelly Roll, and Yardbird while learning how each helped shape the sound of jazz.

Filled with fascinating history, engaging narration, authentic jazz styles, and kid-friendly arrangements, Gotta Be Jazz! is the perfect combination of music appreciation, performance, and education. Students don't just sing about jazz—they experience its story.

Why Music Teachers Love Gotta Be Jazz!

• Perfect for grades 4-8
• Approximately 20-minute running time
• Teaches the history and evolution of jazz
• Features authentic jazz styles and traditions
• Excellent music appreciation resource
• Large speaking opportunities for student participation
• Includes choreography and educational materials
• Perfect for concerts, assemblies, and music history units

Explore the History of Jazz

Students learn how jazz developed and evolved through major musical eras and styles, including:

• Ragtime
• Blues
• Dixieland Jazz
• Swing
• Big Band
• Bebop
• Modern Jazz Influences

Meet the Legends of Jazz

Through music and narration, students discover some of jazz's most influential artists and the stories behind their famous nicknames, contributions, and lasting impact on American music.

A Powerful Music Appreciation Resource

Gotta Be Jazz! goes beyond performance by helping students understand why jazz is often called America's original art form. The program introduces important historical, cultural, and musical concepts in a format that keeps students engaged and audiences entertained.

Educational Benefits

• Supports music appreciation curriculum
• Introduces American music history
• Explores influential jazz artists and styles
• Develops listening and performance skills
• Strengthens cultural and historical understanding
• Builds confidence through speaking and singing opportunities
• Encourages appreciation for improvisation and creativity

Extended Learning Resources Included

The included jazz timeline and recorded history provide valuable classroom resources that help students explore more than a century of jazz development, important recordings, influential performers, and musical innovations.

Perfect For

• Jazz History Units
• Music Appreciation Classes
• Middle School Choir Concerts
• Music in Our Schools Month
• Black History Month Programs
• American Music Studies
• School Assemblies and Fine Arts Events

Kit Includes

• Teacher Edition
• Full-Color Singer 20-Pack
• Performance/Accompaniment CD
• Jazz History Timeline
• Recorded History Resources
• Narration and Choreography
• Educational Materials

Gotta Be Jazz! Frequently Asked Questions

What grades is Gotta Be Jazz! designed for?

The revue is recommended for students in grades 4-8.

How long is the performance?

The complete program runs approximately 20 minutes.

Is Gotta Be Jazz! a traditional musical?

No. It is an educational musical revue featuring songs, narration, choreography, and music history rather than a traditional storyline.

What jazz styles are covered?

The program explores Ragtime, Blues, Dixieland, Swing, Big Band, Bebop, and other important jazz styles.

Does the program teach jazz history?

Yes. Gotta Be Jazz! was specifically designed to help students understand the origins, development, and cultural significance of jazz music.

How many students can participate?

The narration includes speaking opportunities for up to 50 or more students, making it ideal for larger ensembles and school groups.

Is this useful for music appreciation classes?

Absolutely. Many teachers use the revue as part of jazz units, American music history studies, and music appreciation curriculum.

What materials are included in the kit?

The kit includes the Teacher Edition, full-color Singer 20-Pack, Performance/Accompaniment CD, jazz timeline, recorded history resources, choreography, and educational materials.