Introduction
The world of music is filled with inspiring artists and songwriters that captivate audiences and touch people’s lives with their exceptional talent. Taylor Goldsmith, the frontman of American folk-rock band Dawes, is one such individual. Guiding students in appreciating and understanding his songs can be a fulfilling endeavor for educators, fostering creativity and forming a deeper connection with music. This article delves into the importance of teaching students about Taylor Goldsmith and offers tips on how to effectively introduce his work in the classroom.
Background Information
Born in Los Angeles in 1985, Taylor Goldsmith was always destined for a life in music. His father, Lenny Goldsmith, was the lead singer of Tower of Power, which allowed young Taylor to grow up surrounded by musicians and a fervent love for songwriting. In 2009, he formed Dawes with his brother Griffin Goldsmith, Wylie Gelber, and Lee Pardini – a quartet that would go on to make a significant impact on the American folk-rock scene.
Why Teach About Taylor Goldsmith?
1. Emotional Resonance: Many of Taylor Goldsmith’s songs delve into universal themes such as love, loss, hope, and human connection. By teaching the lyrics of Dawes’ songs to students, educators can encourage them to reflect on their feelings and perhaps even find solace in the music during challenging times.
2. Depth of Lyrics: The band’s songs are often poetic and thought-provoking – offering layered meanings that can spark deep discussion within the classroom. Analyzing these lyrics encourages critical thinking skills and empowers students to immerse themselves in the process of interpretation.
3. Musical Mastery: As lead guitarist and primary songwriter for Dawes, Taylor Goldsmith showcases a great sense of melody and harmony throughout their discography. Studying these musical elements can give students a richer appreciation for the construction of songs, which may inspire future musicians and songwriters.
Teaching Tips
1. Select Suitable Songs: Begin by choosing a diverse range of Dawes’ tracks that exemplify different aspects of Taylor Goldsmith’s artistry – from heartfelt ballads to up-tempo rock anthems. Help students understand the context behind each song, and encourage them to form their opinions about the messages and emotions conveyed through lyrics and melody.
2. Encourage Active Listening: Invite students to listen to selected tracks individually or in groups. Provide discussion prompts or open-ended questions related to the themes, lyrics, and musical devices employed in each song. This can spark curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of Taylor Goldsmith’s work.
3. Analyze Lyrics: Many Dawes songs tell intricate stories or explore complex emotions – a perfect opportunity for students to sharpen their analytical skills. Assign the task of dissecting specific verses, helping young learners appreciate the nuances in Taylor Goldsmith’s unique voice and poetic language.
4. Collaborative Creation: Inspire students by encouraging them to create their musical compositions based on Taylor Goldsmith’s technique. Group assignments, such as writing new verses or coming up with chord progressions, can help motivate students through teamwork while paying tribute to Goldsmith’s work.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Taylor Goldsmith’s music provides a window into the soul of a modern-day troubadour with incredible passion for storytelling through songwriting. By introducing his work in the classroom, educators can give young minds a foundation in which to explore their creativity while engaging with meaningful themes that resonate deeply with listeners. And who knows? Sparking interest in Taylor Goldsmith’s music may very well inspire the next generation of singer-songwriters to find their own artistic voices along the way.
