Rehearsing layers of unpitched accompaniments under a chant
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can build layers of percussion under a chant as part of an ensemble and know this creates a thicker texture.
Key learning points
- We can use ostinato patterns to accompany a musical performance.
- We can combine different layers of sound to add texture to an accompaniment.
- We can play multiple layers of sound simultaneously as an ensemble.
- Adding more layers of sound creates a thicker texture.
Keywords
Ostinato - a repeating musical pattern which can be rhythmic or melodic
Texture - the combination of different layers of sounds
Accompaniment - a musical part that supports the main melody or chant
Ensemble - a group of people who perform together
Rehearse - to practise in order to improve and prepare for performance
Common misconception
When playing layers of ostinati we have to ignore the other parts in order to focus on playing our own layer accurately.
When performing layers of ostinati, it is important that each group is aware of how their part fits into the whole. Layers should work together, ensuring they are keeping a steady pulse and that the start of their musical sentences align.
Teacher tip
When layering multiple ostinati, pupils should be sat together with others playing the same part. It can be helpful for pupils to chant their rhythm out loud at the start, and then move to saying the rhythm in their heads as they play.
Equipment
Unpitched percussion instruments such as claves, hand drums. or shakers.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.An ostinato is ...
Q2.Feeling the steady helps us keep in time together as we play and sing.
Q3.When we show or play the steady pulse, it is called the .
Q4.Match the keyword to its definition.
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keyword to its definition.
Q2.The more layers of sound, the the texture.
Q3.True or false? When we play an ostinato, it's important to listen to the other parts as we are playing.
Q4.Which of these will help you to play successfully together in an ensemble?
To help you plan your 3 music lesson on: Rehearsing layers of unpitched accompaniments under a chant, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 3 music lesson on: Rehearsing layers of unpitched accompaniments under a chant, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 music lessons from the Start with playing: adding percussive layers to build texture in our songs unit, dive into the full primary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.