Jazzy Waltz

Performance exemplar - brass duet with accompaniment (full score)

the relative volume of different parts or instruments; effective balance is where every part can be heard clearly

the tuning of notes; if a performer has good intonation it means that the notes are in tune

the specific timbre of a sound, not to be confused with the interval also called a tone

Listen through to this performance and follow the score.

British English CC

how could the second solo part could make the rhythm even more precise?

both players use the tenuto accents to add weight and energy to notes

Both solo players follow the articulation directions closely

This is a typical example

Can you hear the notes that have a less clear tone in this phrase?

In this example, we can hear a slight pitch difference between the instruments

the second solo player plays a long note that sounds slightly out of tune

Listen to this clip - how could the players improve the balance here?

Can you hear both of those elements here?

Considering balance in an ensemble

Music

Playing rhythmically in an ensemble

Performing on a bass instrument in an ensemble

Performing expressively as an ensemble

Refining and polishing an ensemble performance

Pupils will analyse a range of different ensemble performances, focusing on strengths and areas for improvement. They will identify aspects that are crucial for effective ensemble performance and develop strategies for being self-critical and improving their own ensemble performances.

Ensemble performance

The slight ‘vibrating’ effect that singers and instrumentalists use to add expression to individual notes is called {{}}.

Which articulation would create the most detached sound?

hold the note for its full value with weight

What does a tenuto marking tell the performer to do?

everyone plays the same dynamic throughout

each player focuses only on their own dynamic markings

players adjust how loudly they play depending on their role in the music

The loudest instrument should always be heard most clearly

Which approach is most likely to make an ensemble sound clear and effective?

Considering balance in an ensemble

Lesson outcome