Key Stage 3 Music - Song Writing
Lesson 3
Lesson Objectives
Focus on structure by...
Learning to compare Verse and Chorus within different songs
Learning to create a contrast between Verse and Chorus
Starter
Listen to Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana and Imagine - John Lennon.
- Where is the chorus?
- How do you know? Think about
- Dynamics
- Texture
- Instruments
- Melody/Pitch
- Is there a Hook?
- How do the two songs compare?
Practical - Pairs
Arrange your four bar chord progression into a pop song structure.
e.g. Repeat the chord progression four times for the Verse, one for each line of the lyrics.
For the Chorus, you may want to use a different chord progression to create a contrast or change other elements:
- Dynamics
- Texture
- Instruments
- Melody/Pitch
Practice performing your arrangement with a suitable accompaniment backing
Plenary
Listen to student composed verse and chorus. Can you tell when it is the chorus?
Fancy a Challenge?
- Chord Progression - Create another four bar chord progression that could be used for a bridge
- Add a Melody to fit with the Chord Progression - sing or hum along with the chords and see if you can come up with a catchy melody
- Structure - Develop your chord progression(s) into a intro/verse/chorus/bridge pop song structure
- Instruments - can you select an appropriate instrument on the keyboard to play along with the accompaniment using either chords or riffs or melody?
- Instruments - can you play along with the accompaniment on your instrument (e.g. ukulele) using either chords or riffs or melody?
- Can you record your backing to playback and perform chords or riffs or melody on top?
Homestudy
Either...
- Create your own pop song lyrics and bring to next lesson
Or...
- Learn to play Katy Perry - Firework following the piano tutorial video
- What key is it in?
- What is the chord progression for the verse and chorus?
Or...