This Unit is based around practical music making with a connected theoretical component to support musical development. Students explore the early years of modern day pop music styles through an historical look at the Blues and Rock music and the development of this music from earlier classical forms of music and music from Africa. They perform these styles in smaller ensemble groups, performing songs discussed in the theory classes, as well as songs suggested by the students. The theory, aural and practical music covered in this unit provides excellent grounding for Year 10, VCE and VET music courses.
All students undertaking music as an elective are required to or be willing to commence instrumental music lessons, or have already commenced instrumental lessons either at the College or externally.
In this unit students will:
Rehearse and perform as part of an ensemble on an instrument/s of their choice
Explore the theoretical concepts behind the melodic, rhythmical and structural features of the blues and associated styles of music
Develop aural skills in recognising musical patterns of melody, rhythm and harmony
Utilise these theory, aural and practical skills to compose music in the styles covered in class
Students will receive feedback on their ensemble participation. The ensemble assessments at each term provide feedback to students on their willingness and effectiveness at leading discussions and decision making in the ensemble as well as actioning others’ ideas. Students rehearse performance skills as part of an ensemble, developing listening, intonation and rhythmic skills.
Students explore the use of song and musical composition as a form of communication through different historical and geographical contexts as well as through their own music making and pieces. Students will be assessed on a Composition Portfolio consisting of 3 short pieces.
Theory and Aural assessment. Each term students will be assessed on an area of music theory and aural skills as relevant to the music explored in ensemble and class.
Music note book
A4 display folder
Auralia - a web based program for development and consolidation of music aural skills
Musition - a web based program for development and consolidation of music theory.