👀 What’s Inside This Newsletter:
- 🔥 The Principal’s Office: A surprise meeting about a holiday classic.
- 🔎 Hidden Histories: Why "Jingle Bells" and "Miss Mary Mack" aren’t what they seem.
- 🙅♀️ Drawing the Line: Navigating parent concerns and cultural sensitivity in the classroom.
- 🎁 Black History Month Gift: A special February/April bundle for subscribers.
Today was an interesting day. . .
I received an email from our head principal asking to speak with me about a parent concern. Thankfully, she added it was specifically about my teaching "Jingle Bells" to elementary students—otherwise I would have panicked.
As you may know, the composer of Jingle Bells, James Lord Pierpont, sold a lot of his music to minstrel shows. While Jingle Bells was probably published elsewhere first, some musicians believe it should no longer be taught. (There’s even a verse we never hear anymore that’s... a little weird!)
At the same time, it’s a familiar holiday tune and an accessible piece for young orchestra students.
The Concern
A parent, who wanted to remain anonymous, sent a three-page email expressing concern that his fourth-grade daughter was upset about learning what he viewed as a racist song. He felt it should not have been taught—and he raises a valid point.
In my conversation with my supportive principal, she realized I make it a point to know the history of every piece I teach.
For example, these same fourth graders are currently learning "Miss Mary Mack." We discuss how it functioned as a secret song for enslaved people, referencing the USS Merrimack as a path north to freedom.
I also avoid teaching songs that include names like Josie or Dinah, which were used as derogatory terms for enslaved women. She didn’t know that! We even talked about where to draw the line—I once had a family incensed about a Michael Jackson Medley!
The Takeaway
I’m not sharing this to boast about my curriculum. I’m sharing because the world around me has challenged me to be more thoughtful, more informed, and more respectful. That challenge continues to shape how I teach.
What's a story you could share with us? Moments like this push us to ask better questions—and I believe those conversations are just as important as the music itself.
"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again."
Maya Angelou
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And remember, as one of my subscribers you get a special bundle that celebrates February, April, including a sub plan, and a listening assignment!
🎁 Subscriber Exclusive: 50% OFF Black History Month Bundle
As a thank-you for being part of this community, don't forget to download your discounted bundle. 👇
It includes:
✅ 25 Black Composers Posters
✅ 25 Jazz Composers Posters
✅ Journal of Listening
✅ Composer Project + Templates
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To great teaching and great tunes!
- Lyda Osinga, MusicBox Education
