(AUSTRALIAN FOCUS)
Lesson 1: Introduction to Focus Work
Rush (1999) - Matthew Hindson
First Impressions:
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Give one word to describe how you feel.
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How is the title 'Rush' reflected in this work and why do you think it is appropriate?
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As a class, create a visual aid (e.g. mindmap, brainstorm) on the whiteboard/SMART Board showcasing an aural analysis of Rush. Once complete, your teacher will take a photo and upload it to this blog.
[To be done in class. Below is an example of what is expected.]
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Aural Skills:
Dictation 1
Hindson writes that his introduction section was inspired by Pat Metheny's The First Circle (1984).
Have a listen:
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Clap the rhythmic pattern.
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Identify the name of this feature.
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How is this pattern formed?
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What are the similarities between the introduction of The First Circle and Rush? How may have Hindson been inspired?
YOUR TURN:
Compose a 1-2 bar rhythmic motif based on rhythmic cells. (such as the one in The First Circle).
Notate your motif in your composition portfolio.
Annotate the formation of your pattern
Clap your rhythmic motif to the class.
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Next, using the rhythmic motif, assign/compose notes to the rhythm.
Notate it in your composition portfolio.
Perform your melodic motif on any instrument or using Sibelius sounds to class.
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An example is shown below
Lesson 2: Phasing
Revision of HW: (Class Discussion)
What rhythmic patterns did you find in the introduction of Rush?
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Clapping Music (1972) - Steve Reich
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Clap the rhythm
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Divide the class into two groups, perform Reich's Clapping Music. Swap groups!
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What is phasing?
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How is it used in the introduction of Rush?
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YOUR TURN:
In pairs, apply phasing to your rhythmic pattern (chose one (out of your pair) that was composed last lesson). You may choose to perform your arrangement rhythmically or melodically. Notate some shifts in your compositional portfolio. -
Take a look at this example here.
Aural Skills:
Sight Singing Exercise 1 ​
For a bit of fun and practice at home, download Steve Reich's Clapping Music App! (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/steve-reichs-clapping-music/id946487211)
Phasing is a compositional technique where one phrase is played by two performers. The performers begin playing in unison and gradually shift out of unison.
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As a class, expand on your 'First Impressions' discussion from last lesson.
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Include musical examples from the score.
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Identify the main theme.
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Identify the sections.
Theme:
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Bar 75
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First introduced by the viola
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Repetitive
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Same rhythm
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Syncopation
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Narrow Range
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Mainly step movement and small jumps
