Sunday Music Muse Day - Ken Burns Jazz, and Rhapsodies in Black - Music and Words from the Harlem Renaissance

This Sunday Music Muse Day picks are to celebrate the opening the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. 

What better way than with CD sets that showcase the musical heritage of African Americans that have enriched the full American experience.  First is the well known, Ken Burns Jazz - The Story of America's Music. This five CD set. and 44 page booklet, is the sound track companion piece to the well known film documentary.  I admit there are dis-tractors and critics of Burn's take on Jazz history, but never the less there is much to like in the collection. (which I pick up at the public library book store for $7.  So, support you local library when ever you can)

The second is the Rhino Records, Rhapsodies in Black - Music and Words from the Harlem Renaissance.  the Harlem Renaissance is defined as a period in the 1920s when African-American achievements in art and music and literature flourished.  The four CD set contains music, poetry, and a 96 page booklet with essays of, and about, the times.  (I saved this collection from the dumpster at my college library job, as they were weeding the collection.  It's really too good to toss)

The African American Museum and the music, and art of these CD set are not a separate history of this country, but a integral part of the fabric and essence of the American culture.  These are treasures to been celebrate and embraced by all, with honor and respect.  Enjoy.