The University Museum

Introduction to the Exhibit

Professor David McIntosh

• Use the biographical information to learn about Professor McIntosh. Discuss his work as a music historian and his contribution to the preservation of the songs and stories of southern Illinois>

Tools

• Have students examine the pictures of the various recording devices - pen and paper, wax cylinder recorder, reel to reel recorder, cassette recorder, VoiceWriter, SoundScriber, digital recording, computer.

Discussion Topics:

• Use the recording devices timeline to put the devices in chronological order starting with the earliest ones used.
• How do you think each one worked?
• What were the advantages and disadvantages of each one?
• Which tools did Dr. McIntosh use for his work?

Additional Research Topic:

• John and Alan Lomax were very important in the collection of traditional American music. Use the internet and the library to find out more about them.