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The intro, outro and vocal melodies

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Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can add an intro and outro to my grunge composition and create a vocal melody for at least one section.

Key learning points

  1. The intro and outro are important parts of a structure - they provide the 'frame' for the main content of the song.
  2. The intro and outro are usually based on musical ideas from the verse or chorus.
  3. The intro is an opportunity to introduce some of the musical ideas and set the mood for the song.
  4. The outro provides a neat ending to the song. It is not used in all songs.
  5. We can make an instrumental melody vocal by adapting it to fit the rhythms of words.

Keywords

  • Intro - The intro (short for introduction) is the first section of a song, that introduces some of the musical ideas and set the mood for the song.

  • Outro - The outro is the final section of a song that provides a neat ending, often based on musical ideas from other parts of the song.

  • Texture - The texture of a piece of music is how many different layers of sound are heard at the same time. We can describe it as thick (many layers) or thin (few layers).

Common misconception

Singing a melody is only possible if you are a very strong singer.

Everyone can sing, but keeping to a small range of notes can help when building confidence with singing. Singing helps us to internalise the notes and really 'feel' the melody. Melodies can sound much more natural when sung.

Teacher tip

Some students will be reluctant to sing. To encourage them, allow them to record privately (e.g. in a practice room) and sing their melodies for them or with them before they add the lyrics. In this instance, focus on the musical process of making the melody, rather than the 'quality' of the voice.

Equipment

A DAW or other suitable compositional tool or instrument and a built-in or external microphone for recording voice

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
(Collection 2).

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