"Ruby Sings the Blues"...Blues in the Schools
An Avonworth Middle School teacher was working with a reading unit this past semester. The topic...slavery. The teacher incorporated spirituals into the lesson plan and led discussions encompassing their meaning and purpose for the African-American community. Eugene Morgan was invited to speak and sing about spirituals. He was also asked to discuss how field hollers and spirituals played a role in the development of American popular music. Thank you, Eugene!
Eugene also travelled to Dilworth Elementary, a performing arts school, in February to talk about the blues and its rich history during a Black History Month presentation. The students were exuberant with what Eugene shared with them. Many jumped on stage afterwards to "jam" with the ever patient, ever smiling Mr. Eugene.
Note: A book entitled "Ruby Sings the Blues" was placed in the student's library in memory of late BSWPA president, Jim Weber, who first brought the Blues to Dilworth Elementary. It was their way to express their appreciation for the music lessons and the programs that the BSWPA has brought to them. There was a sea of hands that went up from the many students who have benefited from the donated instruments that have resulted from the PITCH program. (Putting Instruments in the Children's Hands) The BSWPA has given many guitars, amps, a drum kit, a sax, harmonicas and an upright piano to their school. They thanked Jim for making that and their young dreams possible. Long live the blues!
P I T C H
The Blues went to School once more. Thanks to Deb Moore and her uncle we gave a young student at Dilworth a guitar to play. Way to go! Eugene talked at length about the guitar. It was from the late 60's, early 70's. It was similar to a Gibson but made affordable for the "everyday" players. Eugene said he had one just like it. He still plays it because it has a "real sweet sound." Thanks for helping us to help the kids.
