SINGING THE BLUES
~ from Ken Lockette's blog, Principal at Avonsworth School
Eugene Morgan gripped his guitar, pursed his lips and began to strum the chords of the 12-bar blues. His voice crackled and groaned as he sang an old Delta song to a small but enchanted audience. Mr. Morgan shared tales in telling the story of the blues and of American history from the fields of the South to the black migration to the industrial northern cities.
Mr. Morgan appeared as a guest artist in Avonworth’s History of American Popular Music class. The Western Pennsylvania Blues Society was a gracious partner in bringing the blues to Avonworth for a day, and it reinforced the importance the arts plays in the lives of our students. In an age when tough economic timeshave hit art organizations hard and when museums, theaters and the like are closing, it is imperative that the arts are nurtured and integrated throughout our curriculum.
In his brief appearance, Mr. Morgan helped to carry on the oral tradition of music and story-telling that is such an important part of the American heritage. As our weakened economy causes us to experience the blues, we can continue to cope and make sense of it all through the arts.
The Blues Society has started the PITCH program (Putting Instruments in the Children’s Hands). The BSWPA’s mission is to “keep the music alive.” Investing in our youth is one avenue that we believe is essential to fulfill that mission. An instrument has been provided for one, very deserving youth who has a passion for music. This the letter that was submitted to the BSWPA:
Part 1 - Dear The Blues, My name is Anthony Neal. I am 10 years old and I go to Dilworth Traditional Academy. I think that I should have a bass guitar because… I am Mrs. Russo’s only bass player In fact I play bass and bass guitar I tak lessons at Hope Academy and I have to take Mrs. Russo’s bass Guitar home and then take it to Hope Academy and the back to school My mom doesn’t have enough money to afford one and I need one to practice at home
Part 2 - I am a excilent musician I play African drums, snare drums. I’m a little bit good at the drumset. I play upright bass and bass guitar. I am the best drum player in the school. I love playing the bass guitar. It is also fun to learn new things on the guitar I take lessons at Hope Academy, but there is a lot more stuff for me to learn in life of playing the guitar. SO I would like to get a base guitar for me to play have for myself practice even play songs with. I would like to start a career.
Your base guitar player,
Anthony Neal
The instructor, Lori Russo, had enclosed a note with Anthony’s: Enjoy this handwritten, heart felt letter from my student, Anthony Neal. What you are doing for him is awesome. Sincerely, L Russo