Students build on their performance skills and music knowledge through a study of popular song and associated chord structures. Classes will incorporate the theory behind chords and keys through exploring the multitude of styles of contemporary music. This theory will then connect with the ensemble classroom where students will perform on their instrument in smaller groups. As well as improving their instrumental performance skills, students will be able to see a direct link from the theory covered in class to their own instrumental playing. Students will also use theoretical concepts to write a piece or song in the style of their choice. This unit forms a continuation of the Semester 1 Unit, but may also be taken as a stand alone unit. The theory, aural and practical music covered in this unit provides excellent grounding for Year 10, VCE and VET music courses.
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 popular music and songs from the last 100 years
Develop aural skills in recognising musical patterns regarding melody, rhythm and harmony
Utilise these theory, aural and practical skills to compose music in a number of different styles of music as covered in class.
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.