Performing on classical guitar
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can analyse a solo classical guitar performance and can develop my own solo performance.
Key learning points
- We can improve our performance by reflecting on accuracy, technical control and interpretation.
- Focusing on one or two most impactful aspects is the most effective way to practise.
- These include accuracy, fluency, tone, intonation, projection, communication and stylistic features.
- We analysed a solo performance on classical guitar, which had many effective aspects.
Keywords
Tone - the specific timbre of a sound, not to be confused with the interval also called a tone
Fluency - how effectively a performance ‘flows’ seamlessly without interruption or hesitation
Accuracy - how effectively a performance uses the correct pitches, rhythms and performance directions
Common misconception
You should try and address all areas for improvement while practising.
Eventually it is a good idea to address all areas for improvement, but in a single practice session you should focus on the one or two that will have the greatest impact on the effectiveness of your performance.
Teacher tip
If possible, providing opportunities for pupils to record themselves playing and to listen back can be effective for accurate self-evaluation. If not, performing to others and getting specific feedback based on the assessment criteria can also help pupils to identify their areas for improvement.
Files needed for this lesson
Performance exemplar - solo classical guitar (audio) 1.67 MB (MP3)
Performance exemplar - solo classical guitar (score) 32.61 KB (PDF)
Download these files to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which action is most likely to improve tone quality on a classical guitar?
Q2.Match the musical action to how if affects expression.
makes phrases more engaging and dramatic
shapes the musical line
adds emotional depth
reduces expressiveness
Q3.A performance flows seamlessly without interruption or hesitation.
Q4.Order these steps from least to most effective for improving fluency:
To help you plan your 11 music lesson on: Performing on classical guitar, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 music lesson on: Performing on classical guitar, 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 Solo performance unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.