Look at Romare Bearden’s “Jammin’ At the Savoy” and have students describe the way this piece of art captures music. Remind students that the Harlem Renaissance included music and poetry, along with the visual arts. Have students discuss why visual artists would capture the mood and feel of music and what they think it signifies about the era.

Then, bring into class music by Duke Ellington, Bessie Smith, Eubie Blake, or Louis Armstrong, all of whom are associated with the Harlem Renaissance. 

Have students listen to one piece of music and create a piece of visual art in response, using Bearden’s style as inspiration. Once students have completed their art, have students describe the way their own art was influenced by the music that they heard. Then, have students write a poem that comments on–but does not necessarily speak on behalf of–the role of art and music in African American life during and beyond the Harlem Renaissance.