book now

Soul Sounds

Experience an electric journey through the evolution of Black music. From the powerful roots of Negro spirituals and gospel to the legendary sounds of Bessie Smith and jazz icon Duke Ellington, this “hip trip” celebrates a rich musical heritage.
 
Sing along to the music of soul royalty like James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye. Groove through the Motown era to the modern hits of John Legend and today’s urban contemporary stars. Prepare to clap your hands and tap your feet to the greatest hits in Black music history!

“Music is the universal language of mankind.”
-James Brown

This program provides a vibrant, multisensory learning experience for children that fosters cultural, social, and emotional growth.

 

  • Cultural Awareness: By exploring the evolution of Black music—from spirituals and gospel to jazz and soul—children develop a deeper understanding of and respect for diverse cultural traditions. 
 
 
  • Historical Literacy: The program serves as an engaging “time capsule,” helping kids connect musical genres to specific historical periods. This approach, sometimes called “tracing it back,” makes history more relatable by linking modern artists like John Legend to their musical ancestors.
 
 
  • Social and Emotional Development: Group activities such as singing along and “grooving” together foster teamwork, cooperation, and a sense of belonging. Music also provides a safe space for children to express their own emotions and build self-confidence.
 
  • Cognitive and Language Skills: Participating in rhythm-based activities can improve a child’s listening skills, attention span, and vocabulary as they learn new words and concepts through song.
 
  • Pride and Identity: For many children, seeing their cultural heritage celebrated in a mainstream setting validates their identity and fosters a sense of pride in the contributions of African American artists to global culture. 
 
 
 

 

 
 
 

Program Includes:

  • Live Commentary
  • Live Musical Performance
  • Integrated Video Projection

TARGETED GRADE LEVEL: 

Elementary Version (K-5)

Secondary Version (6-8, 9-12)

PROGRAM DURATION: 45 Minutes

PROGRAM MATERIALS: Student Worksheets and Teaching Resource Guides

CURRICULUM Connections, TOPICS:

African American Culture, Multicultural Awareness, Social Studies, Arts & Humanities, Music Education, Jazz History, Blues

Other productions:

Testimonials

WHAT our customers SAY

    Penn Charter School

    DIRECTOR, Diversity

    I want to thank you and your team for an amazing celebration. The incredible music coupled with such a powerful historical retrospective made the whole experience memorable and special. I've received many messages of gratitude from students and colleagues.

      Sanford School

      Teacher

      “Your [Soul Sounds] presentation was one of the best assemblies we've had at our school! The teachers and students loved the performance.”

        Episcopal Academy

        Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

        “It was truly our pleasure in having you share [Soul Sounds] with us. Some of the students in my class literally just noted that it was one of their favorite experiences at the school this year. Thanks again for all that you do and we look forward to having you all back in the future.”

          Springer Middle School

          Assistant Principal

          “We thoroughly enjoyed having you here [with Soul Sounds] and hope to do it again next year.