Myths about teaching can hold you back
- Year 10
- AQA
Developing an ensemble composition
I can develop my string quartet composition by developing the texture and using a countermelody.
- Year 10
- AQA
Developing an ensemble composition
I can develop my string quartet composition by developing the texture and using a countermelody.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Adding countermelodies and developing texture are effective ways to develop an ensemble composition.
- A countermelody is a second and equally prominent melody that plays at the same time as the main melody.
- In a string quartet, the second violin or viola normally play countermelodies, although sometimes the cello does.
- When adding countermelodies or developing texture it is crucial to make sure that every part can still be heard well.
- The chord tones of each chord should still be played across all parts to ensure the harmony is still effective.
Keywords
String quartet - a common western classical ensemble consisting of two violins, a viola and a cello
Countermelody - how many layers of music are playing and how they fit together
Texture - a second melody that plays at the same time as the main melody
Melody and accompaniment - a texture in which there is a clear melody and separate accompanying lines
Common misconception
A countermelody is just a type of accompaniment.
It is actually quite different from an accompaniment, because it should be equally as prominent as the main melody, whereas an accompaniment is not. An accompaniment is usually also based on repeating patterns, whereas a melody does not have to be.
To help you plan your year 10 music lesson on: Developing an ensemble composition, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 music lesson on: Developing an ensemble composition, 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.
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Explore more key stage 4 music lessons from the Fundamentals of composition: extended unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
DAW or notation software, keyboard or other suitable instrument as a composition tool.
Licence
Lesson video
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