Developing an ensemble composition
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can develop my string quartet composition by developing the texture and using a countermelody.
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 - a second melody that plays at the same time as the main melody
Texture - how many layers of music are playing and how they fit together
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.
Teacher tip
For more experienced composers, it may be appropriate to explore a cello countermelody. With this, the key is to make sure that the countermelody is based around the chord tones that it was originally playing and that the harmony parts (2nd violin and viola) still fill in the missing chord tones).
Equipment
DAW or 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.What is an instrument’s range?
Q2.A string __________ consists of two violins, a viola and a cello.
Q3.The bass part in a string quartet is normally played by which instrument?
Q4.What is pizzicato?
Q5.Which two instruments typically play the harmony in a string quartet?
Q6.The __________ typically plays the lower of the two harmony parts.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A __________ is a second melody that plays at the same time as the main one.
Q2.Which two of these statements are true about countermelodies?
Q3.In a countermelody, which of the following could contrast with the main melody? (Choose all that apply)
Q4.The easiest way to develop the pitch of the cello part is to what?
Q5.Which statement about developing texture is true?
Q6.Which notes should be played in every bar?
To help you plan your 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 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.
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 Fundamentals of composition: extended unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.