Composing a chord sequence for a pop song
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can compose a chord sequence for a pop song.
Key learning points
- Chord sequences provide the harmony of a song. Chords I, IV, V and vi are the most common.
- Roman numerals refer to degrees of the scale which allow musicians to work out chord patterns in different keys.
- We have performed the I - V - vi - IV chord sequence in the key of C, F and G and composed a 4- or 8-bar sequence.
- When writing chord sequences for a pop song, we also need to consider using common notes from the riff.
Keywords
Chord sequence - a repeating pattern of chords also referred to as a chord progression or pattern
Harmony - the notes that accompany the melody of a song; the chord sequence provides the harmony in music
Chords I, IV, V and vi - chords I, IV, V and vi are the four main chords in pop music; I - V - vi - IV is a very popular chord sequence
Common misconception
Chord sequences have to follow fixed rules exactly.
We use parameters as a guide to give a musical starting point for composing, but sometimes you might find other chords work. Always encourage pupils to try out a few ideas and perform their ideas so they can hear what they sound like.
Teacher tip
The process of working out chords using Roman numerals is difficult at first. Although the keyboard chords are shown in the slides, you might allow time for pupils to work out the chords in task A aurally to reinforce them recognising chords I, IV, V and vi when listening to a piece of music.
Equipment
Keyboard, DAW or other suitable instrument as a composing tool.
Licence
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