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Year 3 - Music

Rehearsing layers of unpitched accompaniments under a chant

Start with playing: adding percussive layers to build texture in our songs

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils explore texture by adding untuned percussion layers to songs and chants. Using repeated rhythms, pupils will develop their sense of pulse and accuracy of rhythm. They will identify rhythmic ostinati in listening examples and begin to describe texture.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to build layers of percussion under a chant as part of an ensemble and know this creates a thicker texture.

Key Notes

  • We can use ostinato patterns to accompany a musical performance.
  • We can combine different layers of sound to add texture to an accompaniment.
  • We can play multiple layers of sound simultaneously as an ensemble.
  • Adding more layers of sound creates a thicker texture.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • ostinato: a repeating musical pattern which can be rhythmic or melodic
  • texture: the combination of different layers of sounds
  • accompaniment: a musical part that supports the main melody or chant
  • ensemble: a group of people who perform together
  • rehearse: to practise in order to improve and prepare for performance

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • When playing layers of ostinati we have to ignore the other parts in order to focus on playing our own layer accurately.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

We can use ostinato patterns to accompany a musical performance. We can combine different layers of sound to add texture to an accompaniment.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'ostinato'

a repeating musical pattern which can be rhythmic or melodic.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: When playing layers of ostinati we have to ignore the other parts in order to focus on playing our own layer accurately. Correction: When performing layers of ostinati, it is important that each group is aware of how their part fits into the whole. Layers should work together, ensuring they are keeping a steady pulse and that the start of their musical sentences align.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 3 Music guide library.