What was life like for a western pioneer? Students take a journey through westward expansion using music to understand the experience of the pioneers. As they listen to lyrics and analyze the different types of music that was being sung and played during the later half of the 19th century, students gain insight into the life of the pioneers. Students identify the relationship between folk songs and historical events, and explore how music inspires and influences people today. The project culminates with a concert where students reenact life on the trail and share songs from the period.