Rehearsing layers of unpitched accompaniments under a song
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can build layers of percussion under a song as part of an ensemble and know this creates a thicker texture.
Key learning points
- We can accompany a song by combining different layers of sound to add texture.
- We can combine multiple ostinato patterns to create a thicker texture.
- An ensemble needs to rehearse together to play successfully.
- In an ensemble, each part needs to play confidently while also understanding how the parts fit together.
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
I only need to worry about my own part in an ensemble.
It is important to be able to play your own part confidently in an ensemble but it is also important to understand how your part fits in with the rest of the ensemble.
Teacher tip
Pupils need to learn how to practise, rehearse and work together effectively. Modelling and reinforcing these strategies will support their ensemble skills.
Equipment
Unpitched percussion instruments such as claves or hand drums.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the musical elements to its definition.
the pattern of sounds that we play and sing
the regular, steady heartbeat of the music
how loud or quiet the music is
the playing or showing of the steady pulse like the ticking of a clock
the combination of different layers of sounds
Q2.A rhythmic ostinato can be played as an extra layer of sound to add to our song or chant.
Q3.The song, an ostinato and playing the beat would create layers of sound.
Q4.True or false? A rhythmic ostinato can be used as an accompaniment for a song or chant.
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.An is a group of people who perform together.
Q2.Which three of the following are ways to add texture to a song or chant?
Q3.Match the musical terms to their definition.
the combination of different layers of sounds
a repeating musical pattern which can be rhythmic or melodic
a group of people who perform together
a musical part that supports the main melody or chant
Q4.When we are rehearsing, which three of these are important?
To help you plan your 3 music lesson on: Rehearsing layers of unpitched accompaniments under a song, 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 song, 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 to texture in our songs unit, dive into the full primary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.