The lesson explores Appalachian music within Virginia, focusing on simulating the acoustical recording process to convey technical challenges and artistic considerations. Modeled after the Bristol Sessions of 1927, conducted by Ralph Peer for the Victor Talking Machine Company, the session primarily used acoustical recording technology prevalent at the time. Performers sang or played instruments into large recording horns, transmitting sound vibrations to a cutting stylus, which etched onto a master disc. Despite limitations in fidelity and dynamic range, the Bristol Sessions captured the essence of early country, blues, and Appalachian music, significantly influencing American popular music's trajectory.

Students explore copyright and intellectual property standards as they relate to music, music technology, and digital citizenship. Students research copyright laws, investigate the trends of copyright throughout history, and make connections to how copyright laws impact music as a creator, performer and consumer. Students can also collaborate to propose their own “Copyright Act'' for the future based on current trends and predictions for future technology.

Students will use a recording platform to layer tracks and produce a small ensemble piece as the only performer. This process encourages individual accountability and emphasizes the importance of ensemble performance skills.

Students will collaborate with a penpal from another school to create a new piece of music together. Using a collaborative-friendly music platform, students will brainstorm and create a composition project. 

This resource demonstrates the 2020 Music Standards of Learning for high school music theory in a chart format.

Students will gain an understanding of the vital role women have played in shaping the music of Appalachian Virginia. Students will be introduced to the contributions of women in early Appalachian music and their roles as musicians, composers, and cultural icons. They will examine the Carter family's influence on Appalachian music and explore and investigate the roles and contributions of women in bluegrass and old-time music and their influence on the preservation and transmission of traditional songs.