Louis Armstrong Lesson

                              Louis Armstrong (1901-1971)

Yesterday took me back to school.  My good teaching friend Peggy Kaeser continues to find ways to share Black History throughout the year with not only her Kindergartners but with their buddy classes.  I applaud her for inviting me into her school community once a month to share lessons in Black history.  Yesterday, equipped with records, a poster, books, and a special guest visitor Timothy Mueller, Kindergarten and Third grade buddies learned about Louis Armstrong and heard live music.  They listened to record excerpts and live music from Timothy as he demonstrated the bugle, cornet, and trumpet complete with different mutes.  The performance brought history to life for students and teachers.  Timothy shared the story of growing up in England and hearing a Louis Armstrong CD and beginning at a young age to play.  A huge Armstrong fan, Timothy has gone on to continue to share the jazz tradition in the U.S. and around the world keeping alive the music of Louis Armstrong and King Oliver.