Using repetition and contrast in a section
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can analyse how a composition creates a balanced structure by using repetition and contrast, and can apply these principles to my own composition.
Key learning points
- Creating a balance between repetition and contrast is key to effective composition.
- This helps to create a sense of unity, while still being a varied composition.
- Common methods for using repetition include repeating rhythmic ideas, melodic phrases or chord progressions.
- To create variety, consider using contrasting melodic ideas, chord progressions or rhythmic patterns.
Keywords
Melodic shape - the ‘shape’ of a melody, including how it ascends or descends and uses conjunct or disjunct movement
Phrase - a short section of a melody, normally lasting 1, 2 or 4 bars
Cadence - the chord pattern at the end of a section or piece (e.g. perfect cadence - chord V then I)
Common misconception
Contrast and variety should only be between different sections, not within sections themselves.
Not necessarily. It is important to have both repetition and contrast both within sections and between different sections. This keeps a piece interesting and varied, while still creating a coherent musical journey.
Teacher tip
This exemplar could also serve as a useful starting point for analysing: idiomatic string and piano writing; balanced phrasing; accompaniment patterns; harmonic structure; melody and accompaniment texture; imitation (e.g. b.21-22 and 29-30); using the relative minor; melodic development (C section).
Equipment
DAW, notation software or instrument suitable as a composition tool.
Files needed for this lesson
Composition exemplar - violin and piano (score) 78.63 KB (PDF)
Composition exemplar - violin and piano (audio) 3.58 MB (MP3)
Download these files to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which word describes movement by leaps in the melodic line?
Q2.A short melodic idea that is repeated in steps either rising or falling is called a ...
Q3.Match these cadences.
perfect
plagal
imperfect
interrupted
Q4.A broken chord pattern is often used as ...
To help you plan your 11 music lesson on: Using repetition and contrast in a section, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 music lesson on: Using repetition and contrast in a section, 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 4 music lessons from the Composition exemplars: creating a varied composition unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.