3(a). Hear two musical styles, live or recorded

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A live performance, or three hours of recordings, from any two of: blues, jazz, classical, country, bluegrass, ethnic, gospel, musical theater, opera. Describe the sound and instruments; identify composers or songwriters, performers and titles; for a live performance, the setting and the audience reaction. Discuss your thoughts.

Note. Two ways in: attend a live performance, or listen to three hours of recordings. Either is enough. If it was a live performance, also describe the setting and the reaction of the audience.

Where this step comes from

Music Merit Badge Requirements (Merit Badge Hub, last modified 2026-05-05), Requirement 3(a) · Offers a live performance or three hours of recordings, from any two of nine listed styles.

Notes and warnings

Where this step comes from