Vertical layering
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how linear loops work in video games and have created some for a racing game.
Key learning points
- Video game composers make music adaptive by using linear loops and vertical layering.
- This allows music to quickly and seamlessly respond to changes caused by a player’s actions.
- Adding (or removing) layers to develop the texture is one way to do vertical layering.
- Adding a harmonised melody is another common tool used by composers for this purpose.
Keywords
Linear loop - a repeating musical idea in a video game that can be looped indefinitely
Adaptive music - music that can change by reacting to a stimulus; video game music reacts to the player's actions
Vertical layering - where layers of music are 'stacked' on top of each other and change in response to the player’s actions
Arpeggio - notes of a chord played separately, ascending or descending
Harmonisation - adding notes to a melody to create harmony with the main melodic notes (also called harmonising)
Common misconception
Reharmonising a melody is as simple as playing it a third higher.
While this can be effective, for certain melodies this won't work effectively. Instead, experimenting with the harmonised melody both above and below the main melody is key, as well as experimenting with 3rds and 6ths.
Teacher tip
If possible, explore real video game music with pupils. Classic games such as Mario Kart 64 demonstrate many key principles - linear loops, vertical layering etc. - but more modern titles are also based upon the same principles. Analysing gameplay videos can put this learning in context for pupils.
Equipment
DAW, notation software, keyboard or other suitable instrument as a composition tool
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Why is video game music adaptive?
Q2.What are the repeating sections of music called in video game music?
Q3.Which of these was a result of limited memory in early video games?
Q4.A __________ rhythm is a fast, repeating rhythm.
Q5.Which of these is a difference between film and video game music?
Q6.Which of these would be a suitable feature in a tense, mysterious spy game?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.__________ layering is where layers of music are 'stacked' on top of each other and change in response to the player’s actions.
Q2.What is an arpeggio?
Q3.Which of these is not an example of vertical layering?
Q4.What is harmonisation?
Q5.The two intervals most effective for harmonising a melody are and sixth.
Q6.For vertical layering to work, which of these must be true?
To help you plan your 10 music lesson on: Vertical layering, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 music lesson on: Vertical layering, 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 Extending understanding in film music: video game music unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.