Lesson 2: Native American Musicians’ Influence on Diverse Genres of Music and Introduction to Jim Pepper

Opening Activity

Play Jim Pepper, Witchi Tai To and remind students that they heard it in the prior class.

• Explain that Jim Pepper played in several genres, sometimes simultaneously (Traditional powwow and Native church; Experimental Jazz/Rock Fusion and what came to be known as World music). “Pepper is remembered for his contributions to the jazz scene and to the Native music scene, and for expanding the perceptions and expectations in both genres” Source: American Indian Community House, New York City.
• Address any misconceptions that appeared in Exit Ticket #1
• Share Jim Pepper’s biographical Information: Jim Pepper was a multifaceted Jazz/Rock Fusion/World/Native musician whose Kaw Indian name (Hunga-che-ada) translates to Flying Eagle. He was a virtuoso tenor and soprano saxophone and flute player, soulful singer, composer, and bandleader with an international reputation. His work continues to influence musicians around the world. Pepper was Kaw through his father and Creek through his mother, and he spent time as a child in Oklahoma and in Portland. His mother, Floy Pepper, was an important figure in Native American education in Oregon. He would alternate between a rural experience in Oklahoma, where he learned traditional music from his father and grandfather, and an urban experience in Portland.