Composing music for an extended story
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use a range of musical techniques to depict actions in a story.
Key learning points
- Trill and glissando are two musical techniques which create a specific effect in music or help to create tension.
- Silence can also be effective in adding tension when used at an appropriate time.
- Using a range of musical techniques and the elements to create an appropriate atmosphere for a scary story.
Keywords
Silence - a moment in the music where nothing is played; it can be used to create suspense
Trill - two alternating notes played quickly
Glissando - a continuous slide between two notes (either upwards or downwards)
Common misconception
A soundtrack should have music all the way through.
Careful use of silence can heighten the tension and help to emphasise the dialogue. There is a balance and silence can be used sparingly to elevate other parts of the music and the story, particularly after a musical build up.
Teacher tip
Remind pupils of the importance of chromatic movement in creating an eerie atmosphere. Try to encourage pupils to think about the unity throughout and where and how they can reuse or adapt some ideas so the music sounds like a soundtrack rather than lots of separate musical ideas.
Equipment
Keyboard instrument or other suitable instrument/DAW that can be used as a composition tool
Licence
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