Blues and jazz
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Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior study of rock and blues, deepening their understanding of blues origins and extending into jazz. Pupils develop knowledge of stylistic features, improvisation and instrumental roles in ensembles. They broaden their awareness of key genres and strengthen their listening, performance and compositional skills in preparation for further GCSE study.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Pupils understand basic features of rock and blues, including the 12-bar blues.
- Pupils can recognise and use primary chords (I, IV, V).
- Pupils understand basic rhythmic concepts including pulse and simple syncopation.
- Pupils can perform or create simple riffs and melodic ideas.
- Pupils understand basic structure (e.g. verse–chorus, repetition).
- Pupils have experience listening to and describing popular music styles.
- Pupils understand that music develops from earlier styles and cultural contexts.
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior study of rock and blues, deepening their understanding of blues origins and extending into jazz. Pupils develop knowledge of stylistic features, improvisation and instrumental roles in ensembles. They broaden their awareness of key genres and strengthen their listening, performance and compositional skills in preparation for further GCSE study.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Pupils understand basic features of rock and blues, including the 12-bar blues.
- Pupils can recognise and use primary chords (I, IV, V).
- Pupils understand basic rhythmic concepts including pulse and simple syncopation.
- Pupils can perform or create simple riffs and melodic ideas.
- Pupils understand basic structure (e.g. verse–chorus, repetition).
- Pupils have experience listening to and describing popular music styles.
- Pupils understand that music develops from earlier styles and cultural contexts.
Blues and jazz
Pupils explore blues and jazz, developing understanding of key features including melody, harmony, structure and improvisation. They analyse and perform stylistic elements such as the 12-bar blues, swing rhythm and walking bass.
5 lessons in unit
- 1
Understanding blues
Coming soon - 2
Melody and structure in blues
Coming soon - 3
The golden age of jazz
Coming soon
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