Length: Semester

Recommended background: None

Content:

Throughout the Semester 1 course, students are expected to learn a harmony instrument, keyboard or guitar. Many students will choose to learn an extra Concert Band instrument (separate group lessons are available through Instrumental Music) or another Rhythm Section instrument (voice, bass or drums) during class time. Once students learn to play the instrument they will join together in small groups to play a complete song.

Semester 1 assignments may include:

• Assignment 1 entails using GarageBand to create a rap song: exploring texture, dynamics and using a musical structure
• Assignment 2 requires students to convince the teacher to attend a performance of any professional musician throughout the world; they will need to evaluate some songs by the artist and explain their viewpoint
• Assignment 3 requires students to choose another musician to investigate; this needs to be presented in a PowerPoint that includes links to songs with animated text and images

Possible ensemble songs include: Smoke on the Water, Feel Good and Seven Nation Army.

During Semester 2, students will continue learning their harmony instrument, keyboard or guitar. Many students will continue to learn an extra Concert Band instrument (separate group lessons are available through Instrumental Music) or another Rhythm Section instrument (voice, bass or drums) during class time.

Semester 2 assignments may include:

• Assignment 1 entails why the student has chosen their particular instrument and researching technical exercises on their instrument and commenting on different musical styles
• Assignment 2 requires students to create a Soundscape for a Rap Song, Film or Speech that involves loops, sound effects and/or music performed by the student; students will need to seek professional examples to help them with structure, texture, dynamics and expression
• In Assignment 3, students will create their own melody over a 4-chord sequence using GarageBand or a recorded backing track
• They may use their own composition or a profession recording for a music video in Assignment 4; students will need to visually represent the style, form and the texture

Possible ensemble songs include those listed in Semester 1, plus Stand by Me, Californication, My Island Home and Just the Way You Are.

Assessment:

Students’ performance will be determined according to the subject’s Achievement Standards as outlined in the framework of the Australian Curriculum. Grades A to E will be used for reporting purposes.