My discussion: 

Minstrel songs, in their cultural and social role, apply in a significant art education mainly purported to reflect American culture. The above musical brand marked the first form of musical and theatrical entertainment to be considered by the Europeans as a unique American in features through white performance. First, minstrel songs should be used in musical classes, considering its brands’ flexibility to change and the deep culture in its performance. While this brand has greatly changed over centuries, it has reflected a universal reflection of Black Americans and the white culture, marking it an ideal and valuable tool for music classes.

The age between 10 and above should be considered when using the brand mentioned above, owing to its capability of differentiating the social culture inside its art and performance. Ideally, the above age is appropriate for the above brand to make them regain and rebuild the art into more contemporary forms similar to other changes experienced in the very genre. It is also important to discuss the song’s origin with children before using them, to help them know their position and the inner culture in the same band Static (America Government, 2022). This includes helping children learn about Minstrel origin with the history of the most popular bandleader from the 1890s through World War 1 (John Philip Sousa), the dance music and brass bands, and the connection of this brand with high class (rural) and high-class (urban) dances. In general, it is important to highlight Stephen Foster, composer of many songs in this brand, mainly citing his laudable American composition.

Post 1: Marcos vasquez Alvarez

Me as an international student, who was not born or raised in this country. Therefore, I do not have an in-depth knowledge of certain historical events in the country, as well as the problems or racial differences throughout history. Also, after enrolling in this class is when I first learned about what a minstrel show is, its origins and the historical context in which it took place. In my opinion, no type of event in the history of a country should be omitted, annulled or simply erased. The reason? Because with the mistakes of the past, it is possible to build a better future, making the necessary corrections and improving in other aspects. In the particular case of traditional folk songs that are part of the history of minstrel shows, I think they should not be removed from school music curricula. why? Because I think that at a purely musical level (tones, rhythms, instruments used, etc.) they have a lot of information to contribute in teaching the evolution of music in America. While those song lyrics that contain racist terms or phrases must be explained why they were used at that time and in what historical context and make it extremely clear to the students why their use is wrong today and even more that They not must be reproduced and repeated within our current society. And at the same time, teachers must promote in students the values of respect, equality and diversity. The second question of what age should these songs be taught? From personal experience, I think as early as possible. For example, in my country there was also slavery and abuse of different races for almost 200 years before the independence of the nation. And from an early age and progressively with each year, professors teach us more deeply about those historical events. But at the same time, the teachers also delve into the fact that we are all equal and deserve the same respect and opportunities in every sphere of life, that these events were and are wrong, and that these types of events occurred in a different historical context in those times. This does not mean that there are no differences today, for example racism, but I can say that to a very little extent. Finally, I don’t know how recognized the composer Stephen Foster is in American musical history, but in this case I think he should only be named as one of the characters who helped develop a musical genre or form of entertainment, not as a laudable composer. Returning to the initial point, it must be explained that his lyrics were portraits of experiences of the people of the time in that specific historical context that should not be reproduced today.
 

Post 2: Thu Doan

The use of minstrel songs in general music lessons has been a topic of debate for many years. On the one hand, these songs are an important part of American music history and can be used to teach children about the cultural influences that shaped American music. We also provide opportunities to teach children. However, it is important to approach the use of these songs with sensitivity and context. The lyrics of many minstrel songs contain racist and offensive language that is harmful and harmful to a particular community. Therefore, it is important to consider whether these songs are age-appropriate and discuss their origins and lyrical issues with children as appropriate. It is also important to discuss the origins of these songs with children to explain the situation and encourage critical thinking. Educators can use these songs to teach students about the history of American music and the social and cultural forces that shaped it. This approach helps students understand the problematic elements of these songs and gives them a more nuanced understanding of their place in American culture. Another consideration is whether to single out Stephen Foster as a credible American composer. Foster’s contribution to American music cannot be ignored, but it’s important to acknowledge that his songs were rooted in ethnic stereotypes and minstrel cultural appropriation of his shows. For this reason, educators should look at Foster’s work critically and place his contributions to American music in historical context. In summary, the use of Minstrel’s songs in general music education requires careful consideration of the suitability of the material and the ethical implications of its use. These songs are part of America’s musical heritage, but they also have a complicated history involving racial stereotypes and cultural appropriation. Educators should carefully select appropriate pieces, provide historical context, and critically address the works of composers such as Stephen in his Foster.