Describing rhythm, tempo, timbre articulation and dynamics
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can accurately describe the rhythm, tempo, timbre, articulation and dynamics of a piece of unfamiliar music.
Key learning points
- A description of rhythm should mention specific note lengths or patterns, as well as any idiomatic rhythms.
- A description of metre and tempo should use technical terms (e.g. presto) and identify tempo changes (e.g. rubato).
- Timbre encompasses both the instruments that are used and the specific sounds or techniques used on them (e.g. muted).
- Describing articulation and dynamics refers to how the note is played and how loud or soft the music is.
Keywords
Metre - how many beats are in a bar (the time signature
Timbre - the specific quality of a sound (e.g. airy, shrill); many instruments can produce more than one timbre
Articulation - how a note is played (e.g. legato, staccato, accented)
Common misconception
A description of timbre should only describe the sound qualities heard.
While this should be included, it is also important to remember to describe the instruments that have been used, and if they from a particular ensemble. Remember that one instrument can also create multiple timbres.
Teacher tip
Describing timbre is subjective, so emphasise that there are many possible words that are appropriate to describe each timbre. To support learning, consider having pupils memorise a few key adjectives to describe the timbre of each instrument (e.g. trumpet - bright, clear).
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