The Power of the Pentatonic

In this lesson, we will explore the pentatonic scale. We will use the pitches of the pentatonic scale to improvise and compose simple question and answer phrases in a 3/4 time signature.

In this lesson, we will learn how to read pitch in the treble clef from which you will perform the first two phrases of 'Amazing Grace' using the F major pentatonic scale.

In this lesson, we will learn how to play the final two phrases of 'Amazing Grace'. We will also explore how to perform a simple left hand accompaniment.

In this lesson, we will explore how to communicate expression in music. We will play all four verses of 'Amazing Grace' and use dynamics and legato and staccato articulation to help shape our performances.

In this lesson, we will revisit all the musical understanding from lessons 1 - 4 in this unit.

In this lesson, we will use the pentatonic scale in folk music around the world and consider how to compose an effective question and answer phrase ending on the tonic and dominant.

In this lesson, we will explore what makes a musical question and answer phrase, including balanced phrases and the use of the tonic and dominant. We will compose balanced question and answer phrases in 3/4 and also begin to notate our compositions using staff notation.

In this lesson, we will explore a range of dynamic markings, explaining how composers use them to shape melodies. We will also learn how to add our own dynamic markings to our compositions.

In this lesson, we will explore different accompaniment styles. We will then compose and perform our own left hand accompaniment on a keyboard.

In this lesson, we will explore how Debussy and Bartok composed music using pentatonic scales. We will take inspiration from these classical composers to compose our own piece of music.

In this lesson, we will explore simple and compound time signatures, which are then explored through composition and performance.

In this lesson, we will explore how composers use balanced melodies in compositions in order to help create longer 4 and 8 bar balanced melodies.

In this lesson, we will explore countermelodies by listening to and performing 'Swing low, sweet chariot' before composing a countermelody for it.