The Marsalis brothers are a driving force in the world of music, consistently pushing the boundaries of jazz and classical music as performers, composers, educators, and advocates for the arts. This article discusses how to teach students about the Marsalis brothers, their contributions to the music industry, and their achievements in their respective careers.

Introducing the Marsalis Family

Begin your lesson by introducing the Marsalis family as a whole, emphasizing their musical legacy and impact on the world of jazz and classical music. The family consists of:

– Ellis Marsalis Jr., pianist and patriarch

– Branford Marsalis, saxophonist

– Wynton Marsalis, trumpeter

– Delfeayo Marsalis, trombonist

– Jason Marsalis, drummer

Covering Their Achievements & Contributions

1. Branford Marsalis – Discuss his accomplishments as a saxophone player, composer, and bandleader. Additionally, mention his collaborations with various artists ranging from Dizzy Gillespie to Sting, as well as his appearances on television shows like “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

2. Wynton Marsalis – Focus on his exceptional work within both jazz and classical music genres. Highlight his Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1997, becoming the first and only artist to receive Grammy Awards for both genres in the same year (1984), his role as artistic director for Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO), and his numerous awards.

3. Delfeayo Marsalis – Explain his contributions as a classical trombonist, recording producer and engineer. Talk about his involvement with various projects such as Spike Lee’s documentary “When The Levees Broke: A Requiem In Four Acts”.

4. Jason Marsalis – Discuss Jason’s rise to prominence behind the drum kit. Cover his performance background at a young age and emphasize his important contributions to jazz like playing various percussive instruments.

Demonstrating Their Impact on Music Education

The Marsalis brothers have been committed to music education, advocating for the importance of music in schools and working directly with students. Highlight their individual involvements in various educational projects like:

– Wynton Marsalis’s leadership role in JLCO, which offers public workshops and lecture-demonstrations for students, masterclasses, and various programs designed to introduce new generations to jazz.

– Delfeayo Marsalis’s work with the Uptown Music Theatre, providing opportunities for young people to hone their musical talents.

– Jason Marsalis’s commitment to music education at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) and his clinics and workshops.