Celebrating African American Musicians

African-American musicians, singers, and composers have contributed enormously to our nation’s history. The remarkable musical achievements of African Americans have strongly and clearly shaped the sound of American music -- giving our Nation's musical vista a rich collection of uniquely American styles.

The career of Marian Anderson, the world-class contralto who was denied permission to sing in Constitution Hall because of her race, symbolizes the achievements of many black American musicians. Performing instead at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, she drew an audience of 75,000 and inspired the world not only with her rich musical gifts, but also with her determination and courage.

The following stories are about music, inspiration and determination. Good lessons to read about during Black History and American Music Month.

The Bat Boy and His Violin
Written by Gavin Curtis, Illustrated by E. B. Lewis
Published by Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing/Richard Jackson Books/Atheneum Books for Young Readers; ISBN: 0-689-84115-9
Ages: 4 - 8 yrs., Price: $5.99

Set in 1948, Reginald's father is the "manager of the Dukes, the worst team in the Negro National League," and eager to have his son be batboy to the team. Reginald, however, has a passion for playing his violin and is determined to continue no matter what his role is on the team. The burgeoning relationship between father and son, and the subliminal message that a talent for music is as admirable as a gift for hitting baseballs makes this an unusual and valuable book.
Selma G. Lanes ©2001 Parents' Choice

Bring on That Beat
By: Rachel Isadora
Published by Penguin Putnam/G.P. Putnam's Sons, ISBN: 0-399-23232-X
Ages: 4 - 8 yrs., Price: $14.99

With dramatic oil paintings in black, white and gray, artist Rachel Isadora evokes Harlem during the 1930s when jazz was everywhere. Though we can't hear the music, we can almost see it. This is a visual tour de force.
Selma G. Lanes ©2002 Parents' Choice

The Music in Derrick's Heart
Written by Gwendolyn Battle-Lavert, Illustrated by Colin Bootman
Published by Holiday House, Inc., ISBN: 0-8234-1353-5
Ages: 4 - 8 yrs., Price: $16.95

This joyful tale of a budding musician includes details of the Deep South-- pecan trees, bare feet, and sweltering sunshine. Uncle Booker T. teaches Derrick how to play the harmonica, and Derrick takes his job of learning very seriously. The story conveys respect for elders, music, and hard work.
Mary Hollowell ©2000 Parents' Choice

When Marian Sang
Written by Brian Selznick
Published by Scholastic Inc., ISBN: 0-439-26967-9
Ages: 6 - 10 yrs., Price: $16.95

This handsome oversize book tells admirably the life-story of the celebrated black singer Marian Anderson (1897-1993). Author Ryan manages to cover the highlights of Anderson's long career in a spare and sober text that never lapses into kiddy talk but treats the book's heroine and its audience - children - with the respect they deserve. Artist Brian Selznick's large, sepia-toned pictures project a near-photographic authenticity, giving the listener/viewer the sense of being right there with Marian. This is the most beautiful and worthwhile picture book to come down the pike in a long while. Don't miss it!
Selma G. Lanes ©2002 Parents' Choice