Adding detail with performance directions
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can analyse how performance directions add detail to a composition, and can use some of these in my own composition.
Key learning points
- Performance directions are an important aspect of a composition.
- They allow composers to precisely communicate their intentions to the performer.
- These include tempo markings, dynamics, articulation, mood terms and instrument-specific techniques.
- You can add more detail by using terms like ‘subito’ (suddenly) and ‘poco a poco’ (little by little).
Keywords
Sustain pedal - the pedal that sustains notes on a piano; its use is indicated by markings below the stave
Rubato - an Italian term indicating that a performer can change the tempo slightly to add expression
Subito - an Italian term indicating that something should happen ‘suddenly’
Poco a poco - an Italian term meaning 'little by little', indicating that something should happen gradually
Slur - a marking that means that notes should be played legato, and that shows their phrasing
Common misconception
You can only use Italian terms for performance directions.
Usually in classical styles this is the norm for aspects like tempo, dynamics and expressive terms. In some cases, however, it can be useful to describe effects in detail in English for the performer if you can't find a suitable Italian term.
Teacher tip
This composition is a useful starting point for exploring: composing for piano; impressionist composition; chromatic and non-functional harmony; extended chords; programme music; using a motif; changing clefs; changing time signatures; developing texture; pedalling.
Files needed for this lesson
Composition exemplar - solo piano fantasy (audio) 10.96 MB (MP3)
Composition exemplar - solo piano fantasy (score) 262.34 KB (PDF)
Download these files to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which term means very fast?
Q2.Which of these techniques would you see only on a score for a string instrument?
Q3.Match each articulation to its meaning.
Q4.Match the term to the type of performance direction.
To help you plan your 11 music lesson on: Adding detail with performance directions, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 music lesson on: Adding detail with performance directions, 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: completing a composition unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.