Lesson plan that teaches the roles that jazz music and jazz musicians played in the war effort and that demonstrates the effect that the war had on jazz in America.

Ralph Ellison was a musician who later became a writer. His book Invisible Man is written like a jazz composition. In this lesson, students will interpret key themes and concepts in Invisible Man that are also found in jazz music.

This site from Red Hot Jazz contains a good biography of Louis Armstrong, arguably the most influential jazz musician. Very interesting and informative, also includes a picture.

Learn of the historical contributions of jazz musician, band leader, and Pennsylvania native, Billy Eckstine in this succinct biography.

A major figure in jazz, Louis Armstrong is considered the father of jazz. Learn about his early days in New Orleans and how he developed into one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

This concise encyclopedia article tells about Wynton Marsalis as both a classical and jazz musician. There is a link to his own website.

PBS profiles American jazz singer and actress Lena Horne's life and music. Includes video.

In this encyclopedia entry, you learn about Charles Mingus, jazz bassist and composer.

This site provides audio clips, photos, and biographical information of this legendary composer and performer. A match game teaches and tests your knowledge of Ellington.

This site is an extensive biography of World War I African American soldier and jazz musician Lieutenant James Reese Europe. It includes much detail about Europe's life, experience in the military, and success as a bandleader. Photos,...

The Kennedy Center's ArtsEdge offers a great unit for introducing jazz to students. Its use of Harlem as the "glue" which binds together elements such as jazz history and jazz terminology, makes it particularly effective for the...

Examine the historical contributions made to the jazz world by this noted composer and arranger from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

This resource presents a brief biography about jazz pianist and composer Fats Waller. Also featured in this resource are a couple of audio clips of his music.

This entry features Sun Ra, a black American jazz composer and keyboard player who led a free jazz big band known for its innovative instrumentation and the theatricality of its performances.

Often called the "Mother of the Blues," Ma Rainey was known for her deep-throated voice and mesmerizing stage presence that drew packed audiences and sold hit records in the early twentieth century.

Cole Porter is discussed in this brief biography. It touches on the highlights of his life and career.

This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Rex Stewart, a black American jazz musician unique for playing the cornet, rather than the trumpet, in big bands as well as small groups throughout his career. His mastery of expressive...

Considered the "King Of Ragtime", Scott Joplin is introduced in this informative web page. Learn more about his background and his music.

With a brief biography and a couple of audio clips, this resource features the talents of drummer and big bandleader Chick Webb.

Read about composer William Grant Still in this resource. This brief biography highlights the career of this African American composer.

This resource provides information about Duke Ellington.

Brief biography of famous singer and Grammy winner Ella Fitzgerald.

Stride pianist James P. Johnson is featured in this resource with a brief biography highlighting his career. It includes an audio clip showcasing his piano playing style.