Exploring texture and timbre
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can change texture and timbre to create contrast in repeated sections of music.
Key learning points
- To create contrast in a composition it is important to vary the texture and timbre.
- This might include changing which part plays the melody and which parts are accompanying.
- Composers use a range of accompaniment patterns to create the mood and character in the music.
- These include broken chords and Alberti bass patterns.
- They change these patterns to create variety and contrast between sections.
Keywords
Accompaniment - The accompaniment is the musical part or parts which provide the rhythmic and harmonic support for the melody.
Broken chord - A broken chord is when the notes of a chord are not all played at the same time.
Alberti bass - Alberti bass is a typical broken chord accompaniment pattern of the classical period.
Common misconception
Broken chords have to be in the triad position where the root is the lowest note.
Broken chords like block chords can be played in different inversions and this can make them more interesting.
Teacher tip
When exploring timbre as development, encourage pupils to consider the bass line in the music and that the other harmonic parts do not sound lower than this, if and when they are swapping parts around.
Equipment
A keyboard (or other suitable instrument) or DAW/notation software
Licence
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