Introduction
Josh Groban, a renowned and celebrated musician, has mesmerized audiences worldwide with his distinctive voice and exceptional talent. As educators, teaching students about Josh Groban’s genre can offer a refreshing and innovative perspective into the realm of classical crossover music.
Classical Crossover: A Unique Blend
Classical crossover is a genre that combines elements of classical music with contemporary popular styles. This fusion creates a harmonious balance that appeals to a diverse audience. Josh Groban’s musical style is primarily rooted in classical crossover, with influences from pop, opera, and musical theater. By analyzing his work, students can appreciate the versatility and richness of this fascinating genre.
Classical Elements in Groban’s Music
As an introduction to Groban’s classical inspirations, educators can explore his songs featuring prominent use of classical instruments such as strings, piano, and harp. Examples include “Oceano” and “Per Te,” where traditional orchestral arrangements create a lush soundscape that supports his powerful vocals.
Opera Influence: An Accessible Introduction
Another noteworthy aspect of Groban’s style is his adaptation of operatic themes into contemporary songs. By examining tracks like “You’re Still You” and “Alla Luce del Sole,” students can observe how he marries accessible melodies with elements of operatic style. This presents an opportunity for young learners to gain an appreciation for the drama and technical skill inherent in opera.
Musical Theater Inspiration: Storytelling Through Song
Josh Groban’s foray into musical theater, most notably starring as Pierre in “The Great Comet of 1812,” brings another layer to his performance style. Analyzing songs like “Evermore” from Beauty and the Beast or “Anthem” from Chess demonstrates how he employs storytelling through lyrics and emotional delivery. Teaching this aspect can provide a foundation for students’ understanding of storytelling and character development in music.
Activities to Engage Students:
1. Listening and Analysis: Play samples of various Groban songs that showcase his diverse influences, encouraging students to take notes on the classical elements they hear.
2. Comparisons: Have students compare and contrast Groban’s music with traditional classical compositions, identifying similarities and differences in structure, melody, and instrumentation.
3. Creative Writing: Invite students to write their lyrics for a song that combines classical and popular styles, drawing inspiration from Groban’s work.
4. Group Discussions: Encourage students to share their thoughts on what they find compelling about Josh Groban’s genre and discuss why his music resonates with such a wide audience.
5. Singing Workshop: If your class is vocally inclined, host a workshop where students can learn to sing selections from Groban’s repertoire, focusing on vocal techniques that bridge the gap between classical training and contemporary styles.
Conclusion
Teaching students about the genre of classical crossover through the lens of Josh Groban’s music offers an engaging and distinctive approach to learning about musical styles. As educators, incorporating his work into classroom discussions can inspire creativity and foster appreciation for the diverse world of music.
