Jazz during the Harlem Renaissance

Musicals, jazz, opera, blues, ragtime — these are in many ways the most well-known “face” of the Harlem
Renaissance. Take one or two at most of the musical numbers and explore how it expresses one of the themes
we have seen so far. (For example, use of the past, African heritage, education, intellectual achievement and
worth, etc.) Be sure to support your ideas with evidence from the readings.
Readings/Recordings
Bessie Smith, “St. Louis Blues,”
READ: Gunther Schuller, “Jazz,” Encyclopedia Brittanica Online
READ: Joel Rogers, “Jazz at Home,” PHRR 52-57;