In this unit you will;
1. Learn to play the keyboard part ( chords and melody) and deconstruct the song 'If I Were a Boy' as well as other 4 Chord Songs.
2. Create a cover version of 'If I Were a Boy' using different music styles/genres (Pop, Rock and 80's).
3. Learn to use the Sibelius Notation Software.
4. Learn concepts about arranging music - chord voicing, creating effective bass lines and drum patterns.
5. Learn how to create original melodies to existing chord sequences.
6. Create and notate an original melody using the chords Am, F, C, G.
Introduction to 4 Chord Songs and Hooktheory.com
LEARN the Keyboard Chords, Bass Guitar, Drums and Vocals for If I Were a Boy.Work in groups of 3 or 4. Think about the structure of the song and creating an intro and outro. Try playing the song in an 1/8th Pop style as well as a jazz swing style.
Work in groups of 3 or 4. Think about the structure of the song and creating an intro and outro. Try playing the song in a 1/8th Pop style as well as a jazz swing style.
Think about the lyrics and what this song is about. If you like try creating some new lyrics.
Lesson 2 : ARRANGE : Chord & Bass Patterns
- Keyboard Comping Patterns
- Bass Line Variations - Passing Notes & Leading Notes
Introduction to the Sibelius Music Notation Software. Watch 2 videos 2-10mins. Sibelius Fundamentals clip start at 1:40 ( finish 8:20).
Pre-Task #1 :Download the Template 1 file and enter the song 'If I Were a Boy' into Sibelius. You will need a copy of the printed sheet. The answer is here for you to refer to if you're not sure what to do. This will be assessed.
Pre-Task #2 :Download the Template 2 file and enter the song 'If I Were a Boy' into Sibelius. You will need a copy of the printed sheet. The answer is here for you to refer to if you're not sure what to do. This will be assessed.
Pre-Task #3 :With a partner work at a keyboard one person playing chords and the other playing the melody. Try to create a new melody to the existing chords. Start by playing scales over the chords. 3 scales work well; A minor pentatonic, C Major and A Blues. You may also like to create some lyrics to go with your melody. Try singing these. This will be assessed.
| Improvise New Melody in Pop 1/8th Note Style |
| Scale - ACDEGA (Minor Pentatonic), C Major (CDEFGABC) |
| Pair - 1 play chords 2 improvise melody |
| Melodic Hooks - repetition/contrast, phrases and fit new lyrics |
| Improvise New Melody in a Jazzy Swing Style |
| Scale - ACDEGA (Minor Pentatonic), A Blues (ACDEbEGA) |
| Pair - 1 play chords 2 improvise melody |
| Melodic Hooks - repetition/contrast, phrases and fit new lyrics |
Pre-Task #4 :Open your Sibelius Pre-Task 2 Answer. Save a copy and rename it Pre-Task 4. Delete the existing vocal part and try to create a new melody. Keep it simple and use a balance of repetition and contrast. It should be catchy, memorable and easy enough to sing. If you have time try writing some lyrics to go with the melody. Save your work. This will be the final assessment.