Learning Gumama in harmony
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can sing Gumama as part of a three-part homophonic texture, focusing on producing clear, tall vowel sounds.
Key learning points
- Singing Gumama in three-part homophonic harmony
- Correct balance is important when signing in homophonic harmony
- Correct balance is where the parts are performed at the same volume to create a rich and warm tone in a vocal ensemble
- Syncopation adds energy and creates a groove in the music
- Syncopation and triplets can create rhythmic interest
Keywords
Harmony - the notes that accompany the melody
Homophony - two or more different layers which move at the same time (in harmony)
Syncopation - a rhythm which emphasises (accents) notes in between the main beats, often referred to as off-beat rhythms
Triplet - three notes performed in a beat where normally two would be played
Common misconception
Good balance means the parts should be the same volume all the time.
There is a nuance to balance and we always need to listen to other performers in the ensemble to check we can hear them and particularly hear the lead line. In Gumama all parts are of equal importance so the parts are a similar volume.
Teacher tip
When teaching the song, use body movements (conducting beats etc. to show the pulse) to emphasise the notes that land on the beat, the syncopation and the triplets. The song can also be performed with hand drums or cajons to add rhythmic interest and reinforce the pulse.
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.A good singing breath is ...
Q2.What are tall vowels?
Q3.What word describes notes that land off the beat?
Q4.How would you describe all the notes and parts that accompany the melody?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Why is it helpful to show expression on our faces when we sing?
Q2.What is the texture when there are two or more different layers in the music which move at the same time?
Q3.Which of these best describes the correct approach to balance?
Q4.What is the term for three notes performed in a beat where normally two would be played?
To help you plan your 8 music lesson on: Learning Gumama in harmony, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 8 music lesson on: Learning Gumama in harmony, 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.
Explore more key stage 3 music lessons from the Year 8 song guides unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.