Looking for something for students to enjoy in the jazz category? The life of Ella Fitzgerald and her music are an inspiration to all. Everyone loved her incredible voice, amazing range, and ability to imitate any instrument. Ella sang in numerous musical styles, from Broadway show tunes to popular songs to jazz. Her abilities earned her the…

This narrative describes two United States Air Force bandswomen whose combined careers span the past sixty years. Cornetist Martha (Martye) Jean Awkerman joined the U.S. Women in the Air Force (WAF) Band in 1955. She served the WAF band as cornet soloist and principal trumpet until the band was disbanded in 1961. In 1983, tubist Jan Duga joined…

The late 1950s and early 1960s were times of controversial innovation in jazz. Mary Lou Williams--the outstanding female instrumentalist in jazz history, female players of avant-garde music, and women currently in the jazz forefront are discussed. (RM)

This article presents an overview on women composers in the United States from the eighteenth century to the present. It also lists women's musical organizations, selected references on women in music, and available recordings of works by American women composers. (SJL)