Lesson 2: Music and History

How did this historical period influence the music written at that time?
What connections exist between music and major events or social changes?

historical context, era, Baroque, Romantic, 20th-century, innovation, stylistic influence, nationalism

NAfME 3.3 – Examine connections between music and historical events or social trends
NAfME 3.4 – Explain how historical context influences musical choices

Helps students recognize that music is shaped by the time and society in which it was created, deepening interpretive insight.

Students may assume music reflects only the emotions of the composer.
Students may overlook broader historical or social influences.

Provide timelines linking music pieces to historical events.
Advanced students can explore primary sources or compare music from different periods.

• Timeline or graphic organizer linking musical works to historical events.

• Class discussion connecting music examples to historical context.