the most useful chords in a key - chord I (1), IV (4) and V (5)

chords ii (2), iii (3) and vi (6) in a key

chord I (1). In C major, the tonic chord is a C major chord

where a chord sequence ends with chord V then I, creating a finished feeling

where a chord sequence or section of one ends on chord V, creating an unfinished feeling

Typical 8-bar chord sequence

British English CC

Fewer primary chords

Chord sequence with tonic to start, dominant chord halfway and tonic to finish

Chord sequence listening for cadences

Creating a chord sequence: video

Task A feedback

Compare these chord sequences: ex.1

Compare these chord sequences: ex.2

Compare these chord sequences: ex.3

Use a mixture of primary and secondary chords

Developing a chord sequence with secondary chords

Task B feedback audio

Composing a chord sequence

Music

Melodic fundamentals

Developing a melody

Developing a chord sequence

Combining melody and harmony

This unit explores fundamental components of composition. It embeds and develops pupils' understanding of writing melodies, including idiomatic features and making a melody sound 'melodic'. It also explores effective writing of chord sequences, and how these intertwine with melodic writing.

Fundamentals of composition

What type of chords should be used sparingly in a chord sequence?

Chord I is also called the __________ chord.

If a roman numeral is in lower case (e.g. iii) this means it is a __________ chord.

Which two chords create a feeling of completeness at the end of a sequence?

A __________ cadence is when a chord sequence ends with chord V then I.

An imperfect cadence finishes on which chord?

16- or 32-bar section of a piece of music

the choice of chords that underlie a piece of music

the tune, usually the most memorable feature in a piece of music

A  __________ is a short, memorable part of a melody that is used multiple times.

A __________ is where a melodic idea is repeated in steps either rising or falling.

How many times should a melodic idea be played in a sequence?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Composing a chord sequence

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.