Composing a chord sequence
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can compose an effective 8-bar chord sequence using the typical conventions of Western classical music.
Key learning points
- Chord sequences are patterns of chords that form the harmony in a composition.
- Starting on chord I (tonic) and using mostly primary chords (chords I, IV and V) helps to anchor the music in a key.
- Using some secondary chords (ii, iii and vi) adds further interest, but these should be used sparingly.
- Ending with a perfect cadence (chord V to I) helps the music feel finished.
- Using an imperfect cadence (any chord to V) in the middle of the sequence (bar 4) helps the music sound unfinished.
Keywords
Primary chord - the most useful chords in a key - chord I (1), IV (4) and V (5)
Secondary chord - chords ii (2), iii (3) and vi (6) in a key
Tonic - chord I (1). In C major, the tonic chord is a C major chord
Perfect cadence - where a chord sequence ends with chord V then I, creating a finished feeling
Imperfect cadence - where a chord sequence or section of one ends on chord V, creating an unfinished feeling
Common misconception
Secondary chords shouldn't be used.
Secondary chords are important for interesting harmony and using them is a good idea. As you become a more experienced composer, you'll learn how to effectively use them. For now, a good rule of thumb is to use them sparingly.
Teacher tip
More experienced composers can be encouraged to explore use of chord inversions in their chord sequences. When doing this, they should focus on minimising physical movement between chords on the piano keyboard - this helps to use inversions effectively and melodically.
Equipment
A DAW, notation software, a keyboard or other suitable instrument that can be used as a composition tool.
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In G major, G is the __________ note.
Q2.A phrase is __________.
Q3.A melody is __________.
Q4.A __________ is a short, memorable part of a melody that is used multiple times.
Q5.A __________ is where a melodic idea is repeated in steps either rising or falling.
Q6.How many times should a melodic idea be played in a sequence?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What type of chords should be used sparingly in a chord sequence?
Q2.Chord I is also called the __________ chord.
Q3.If a roman numeral is in lower case (e.g. iii) this means it is a __________ chord.
Q4.Which two chords create a feeling of completeness at the end of a sequence?
Q5.A __________ cadence is when a chord sequence ends with chord V then I.
Q6.An imperfect cadence finishes on which chord?
To help you plan your 10 music lesson on: Composing a chord sequence, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 music lesson on: Composing a chord sequence, 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 unit, dive into the full secondary music curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.