Download Background information

Background information
The structuring of the elements being studied in this lesson provides a taster to
extended analysis and further activities to enhance aural perception. Distinctive
examples have been chosen to promote a quick response from students. By
presenting aural clues in a visual form it is hoped to lead the student towards
purely aural stimuli at a later stage.
Students should be encouraged to observe the more static nature of the
harmonic structure and note the independence of the melodic material in the
examples here. Some teachers may prefer to use the lesson as a brief precursor
to extended vocal and instrumental work. Sequencing software may provide a
different approach to this subject that teachers may wish to explore. A good initial
activity might focus on melody and bass lines with a drum track providing
accompaniment prior to harmonic work being introduced.
The subject should encourage class discussion, particularly through the use of
further examples as described in the teachers’ notes.
There are useful follow-ups for looking at elements such as ground bass at:
http://www.musicdepartment.org.uk/ground_bass.htm
Many examples of both Midi and MP3 files of classical material are downloadable
from: http://www.classicalarchives.com
A good source of free and cheap sheet music, including some of the examples
mentioned here is: www.sibeliusmusic.com
Due to the use of Flash in this lesson, it has not been possible to precisely
synchronise music with images. However, for an example of how this can be
done, students should look at The Music Animation Machine at
http://www.well.com/~smalin/. It elegantly presents well-chosen samples through
the use of the Quicktime movie format. The music is well chosen and the system
works well both for general observations and more focused study. Videotapes of
the animations are also available free to teachers and libraries.
©learnthings Ltd 2004