Fats Waller Worksheet From Composers Monthly

The correct answer is "lyrics". Lyrics refer to the words of a song, typically accompanied by music. They convey the message or story of the song and are often sung by the vocalist or performers. The term "lyrics" is widely used in the music industry and is commonly understood as the text or words of a song.

One of Mr. Waller's "firsts" in jazz music history was playing the organ. This means that he was one of the first musicians to incorporate the organ into jazz music, adding a unique and distinct sound to the genre.

"Stride piano" is a style of piano playing where the left hand moves back and forth between low and middle registers of the piano. This technique creates a "striding" motion, as the left hand covers a wide range of notes in a rhythmic pattern. The name "stride" accurately describes this style because the left hand literally strides across the keys, providing a strong and driving bass line while also maintaining the beat and harmony of the music.

Ragtime is the correct answer because it is a style of piano music that originated in the late 19th century and was popularized by African-American musicians. It is characterized by a syncopated rhythm and a "ragged" or uneven melody. Stride piano, on the other hand, is a piano style that developed in the early 20th century and evolved from ragtime. It involves the pianist playing a bass note in the left hand and "striding" up and down the keyboard with the right hand, creating a lively and energetic sound. Therefore, the "roots" of stride piano can be traced back to ragtime.

Mr. Waller's other first was creating the first jazz waltz in 3/4. This means that he was the first person to compose a waltz in the jazz genre, using a time signature of 3/4. This innovation would have added a unique rhythmic element to the jazz music of the time, showcasing Waller's creativity and contribution to the development of jazz music.

The correct answer is playing in a theater. This suggests that the individual's first paying music job was performing in a theater setting.

A 'riff' in jazz refers to an ostinato, which is a repeated musical phrase or pattern. In jazz, riffs are often played by various instruments, such as the piano, saxophone, or guitar, and serve as a foundation for improvisation. These repeated patterns add a rhythmic and melodic element to the music, creating a recognizable and catchy motif. Riffs are commonly used in jazz to establish a groove and provide a framework for the musicians to build upon during their solos.

Mr. Waller wrote many of his songs with a lyricist. A lyricist is someone who writes the words or lyrics to a song. This suggests that Mr. Waller collaborated with someone who specialized in writing lyrics while he focused on composing the music. The lyricist would have contributed to the overall storytelling and emotional impact of the songs, working in tandem with Mr. Waller's musical compositions.

The given answer, "lyricist," is the correct answer because the statement mentions that Mr. Waller worked with people who wrote these, implying that he worked with individuals involved in writing lyrics. The other options, such as screenplays, vocal coach, and music opera, do not align with the statement and are unrelated to writing lyrics. Therefore, "lyricist" is the most suitable answer based on the given information.

The correct answer is "Stormy Weather" because in the given question, it is stated that Fats "stole" a scene from this movie. Therefore, the answer must be the movie in which Fats stole a scene, which is "Stormy Weather".

The correct answer is Harlem. The question provides a clue about a neighborhood where the Waller's lived. Out of the given options, Harlem is the only one that fits the description of a neighborhood. Therefore, Harlem is the correct answer.

The correct answer is "organ" because the question states that Mr. Waller was the first to use this instrument in jazz, and out of the given options, the organ is the only instrument that fits this description. The saxophone, flute, and piano were all used in jazz before Mr. Waller, but the organ was not commonly used until he introduced it to the genre.

Fats Waller, while his fellow students gathered for assemblies at his school, chose to improvise at the piano. This means that he would create and perform music on the spot without any prior planning or written music. Improvisation is a skill often associated with jazz musicians, allowing them to showcase their creativity and musicality. Waller's decision to improvise during assemblies suggests that he had a strong passion for music and a desire to express himself through his piano playing.

Thomas played the harmonium when he was six.

Young Thomas Waller's first music performance experience was as a street performer.