This lesson plan may be used in either band class or general music classes. In band class it may be used with Themes of Early 20th Century Composers for Band, (available from J.W. Pepper). The plan surveys the music of African-Americans, citing Negro Spirituals, The Blues, Jazz, Gospel and Rap. There is also a focus on the "firsts" and achievements of African-American classical composers. The plan includes an instruction page, audio examples, vocabulary, an adaptable sample multiple choice asses