From blues to bluegrass, the University of North Georgia is examining unique American music in the series “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Most Popular Music.”

The series, which began Jan. 15, will continue with its next topic of swing jazz. The subject will be covered in an episode of “Ken Burns’ Jazz” and the documentary “International Sweethearts of Rhythm.”

Esther Morgan-Ellis, who teaches music at UNG, will lead the discussions about the historical context and social impact of each musical genre throughout the series.

“For more than a hundred years the United States has boasted the most influential popular music traditions in the world,” Morgan-Ellis said. “American popular music has had a profound global impact in the commercial, cultural and artistic spheres. This film series is a wonderful opportunity to experience some of the startlingly original and deeply passionate music traditions that have arisen in America over the past century.”

The “America’s Music” series explores a different musical genre’s influence on American life during each session.

The free series is at 6 p.m. on consecutive Wednesdays in January and February on UNG’s Dahlonega Campus. Sessions last 90 minutes to two hours. RSVPs are appreciated.

The remaining “America’s Music” sessions are:

* Feb. 12: The histories of country and bluegrass are traced in the documentary “High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music.”

* Feb. 19: The emergence of rock and roll is featured in an episode of “The History of Rock and Roll.”

For more information, call 706-864-1807, email julie.housknecht@ung.edu or visit http://ung.edu/libraries/americas-music.php.