We have had a fantastic amount of engagement from our ACE community who have suggested some fantastic artists to be included in our Musician of the Month. Thank you to everyone who shared what they listen to at home with us.
November’s Musician of the Month has been Ella Fitzgerald otherwise known as ‘The First Lady of song’. Ella Fitzgerald was the most popular female jazz singer in the US for more than half a century. She won 13 Grammys and sold over 40 million albums in her lifetime. She came from happy, but humble beginnings and after suffering the loss of her mother, she began singing, entering, and winning every competition she entered. Throughout her career, Ella would master scat singing, turning it into a form of art. Ella Fitzgerald has delighted millions with her signature combination of grace, style, and undeniable love of music. Overcoming discrimination was a significant part of her story. She was awarded the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) Equal Justice Award and the American Black Achievement Award, as well as many other honours that celebrated her talents and accomplishments both in the jazz world and in the civil rights movement. Fitzgerald was seen as an inspiration. Her drive pushed her career forward, and by using her talent and help from her friends, colleagues, and manager, she was able to break down seemingly impossible barriers.
I would highly recommend you watch the Little People Big Dreams have a book about her life and career: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLtTxqWn7aM In Ella’s story there is mention of loss of a parent, so please be ready to have those tricky conversations and be aware of those that may have experienced/ be affected by this. Ella Fitzgerald is an artist that should be celebrated because despite traumatic childhood experiences, she managed to tap into a reserve of determination, perseverance, and undeniable talent to become the Queen of Jazz.
A quick, fun activity:
Ella is described as able to “imitate every instrument in the band.” Play a recording of a jazz band, and try to identify the instruments. Can they an imitate those sounds like Ella could? Ask your class to experiment singing with nonsensical words, like “Dubi dubi dubu daba.” Play one of Ella’s songs and ask the class what they think of her unique sound.
Ella Fitzgerald Discography:
Into each life some rain must fall
A-tisket A-tasket
Smooth Sailing
Over the rainbow
Cheek to cheek
Isn’t this a lovely day?
Let’s face the music and dance
Dream a little dream of me
Too marvellous for words