Mumford and Sons is a popular folk-rock band that emerged from England in the late 2000s. The band quickly rose to fame with their unique sound, which heavily incorporates acoustic instruments such as the banjo and mandolin. Young students may find their music fascinating, but may not fully comprehend their genre. Therefore, teaching students about the Mumford and Sons genre is a great way to introduce them to the world of music.

The Mumford and Sons genre falls under the ‘folk-rock’ category. Folk-rock is a blend of traditional folk music with contemporary rock and roll. The genre rose to popularity in the 1960s with popular bands like The Byrds, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young. Folk-rock music often includes acoustic instruments like the banjo, mandolin, and fiddle, along with the electric guitar and bass. The use of these instruments gives the music a unique sound, which is often described as ‘earthy’ and ‘authentic.’

Mumford and Sons deserve a special mention not just because of their sound, but because of the way they have renewed interest in this genre. The band released their debut album, ‘Sigh No More,’ in 2009, and it was an instant hit. The album went on to break records, winning them several awards and nominations. The band has continued to grow in popularity over the years, releasing hit songs such as ‘Little Lion Man,’ ‘The Cave,’ and ‘I Will Wait.’ Their music has become anthems for a new generation and their popularity has rekindled interest in the folk-rock genre.

When teaching students about the Mumford and Sons genre, it is important to start with the basics. You can begin by introducing students to the instruments commonly used in folk-rock music, like the banjo and mandolin. Explain how these instruments work and how they differ from more traditional rock and roll instruments. You can supplement this information with audio and video clips of Mumford and Sons playing their music live, so that students can see the instruments in action.

The next step would be to talk about the themes often present in folk-rock music. These themes usually focus on the human condition, including love, loss, and social commentary. Students may be surprised that folk-rock often carries a message that goes far beyond the music. You can use Mumford and Sons’ song lyrics to discuss how they incorporate these themes into their music, and how they use their platform to address issues they care about.

Finally, you can encourage students to explore other folk-rock bands that rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s. You can discuss how folk-rock influenced other genres like country and bluegrass music, and how the genre continues to evolve today. Encourage your students to find new music that interests them, and remind them of the many ways they can access that music, whether it’s through online streaming, record stores, or live concerts.

In conclusion, teaching students about the Mumford and Sons genre is a great way to introduce them to the world of music. By understanding the basics of folk-rock and the themes often present in the genre, students can gain an appreciation for the music and even be inspired to explore other bands and genres. Moreover, they can appreciate the timeless power of music, the way it brings people of different ages, races, and backgrounds together through a shared love of sound.