The second term of SS2 music education is an essential period for developing a deeper understanding of musical theory, harmony, cultural music forms, and dance. This comprehensive article is designed to provide a professional, detailed, and expert-level guide to the core topics covered in the second term of the SS2 music curriculum. It aims to not only educate students but also ensure that the content resonates with those who are new to the subject, offering clear explanations and practical examples for every concept.
Week 1: Triads – Primary and Secondary Triads (Root and Inverted Position Triads)
Triads form the foundation of Western music harmony. They consist of three notes, typically stacked in thirds. Triads can be placed in various positions to create harmonic tension and resolution in music.
Primary Triads
Primary triads, also known as the diatonic triads, are the main chords in any key. They are formed from the first (I), fourth (IV), and fifth (V) degrees of the scale. These chords are the most stable and common in Western music.
- Example in C Major:
- I (C Major): C – E – G
- IV (F Major): F – A – C
- V (G Major): G – B – D
Secondary Triads
Secondary triads are formed from the remaining scale degrees: II, III, and VI. They are used less frequently than the primary triads and create a sense of movement or tension.
- Example in C Major:
- II (D minor): D – F – A
- III (E minor): E – G – B
- VI (A minor): A – C – E
Inverted Position Triads
A triad can be played in different positions, called inversions, by rearranging the notes. This creates smoother voice leading and adds variety to the harmony.
- Root Position: The root of the triad is the lowest note. (Example: C – E – G)
- First Inversion: The third of the triad is the lowest note. (Example: E – G – C)
- Second Inversion: The fifth of the triad is the lowest note. (Example: G – C – E)
Reading Assignment:
- Listen to a piece of music, identify the primary and secondary triads, and determine if any are in inverted positions.
Evaluation Questions:
- What are the primary triads in the key of C major?
- How do inverted triads differ from root position triads?
Week 2: Harmony – Harmonization of Simple Melodies
Harmony refers to the simultaneous combination of different musical notes to produce chords that support a melody. Harmonizing a simple melody means adding chords to accompany the melody in a way that complements its musical direction.
Harmonization Process
To harmonize a simple melody, one must analyze the key, scale, and chord progression of the piece. Typically, primary and secondary triads are used to provide harmonic support.
Example:
- Melody: C – D – E – F – G
- Harmony: C – G – F – C
Principles of Harmonization:
- Chord Progression: Choose chords that belong to the key of the melody.
- Smooth Voice Leading: Ensure that the notes in the chords move smoothly from one to another.
- Avoid Dissonance: Ensure that the harmonizing chords blend well with the melody, avoiding harsh or clashing intervals.
Reading Assignment:
- Pick a simple melody from any song and try harmonizing it using triads from the key.
Evaluation Questions:
- What is the role of harmony in supporting a melody?
- How do you determine the appropriate triads to use in harmonizing a melody?
Week 3: Harmony (Continued)
In this continuation of harmony, we delve deeper into the use of complex harmonies and how they can add emotional depth to music.
Extended Chords:
In addition to basic triads, extended chords (such as 7ths, 9ths, and 13ths) are frequently used to add color and complexity to harmonies.
- Example: Cmaj7 (C – E – G – B)
Dissonance and Resolution:
Dissonance occurs when the notes in a chord create a sense of tension. Resolution happens when this tension is resolved, often by moving to a consonant chord.
Reading Assignment:
- Listen to a song with complex harmonies and identify the use of extended chords and dissonance.
Evaluation Questions:
- What is the difference between consonance and dissonance in harmony?
- How do extended chords like 7ths and 9ths enhance harmony?
Week 4: African Music – Colonial and Post-Colonial Forms of Music
African music is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of various African communities. The colonial era significantly influenced African music, leading to a fusion of indigenous sounds with Western styles. Post-colonial African music further reflects the complex interaction between indigenous and external influences.
Colonial African Music:
During the colonial period, African music was often seen as primitive by Western colonizers. However, African musicians began to blend traditional African rhythms with Western instruments, such as the guitar and violin.
Example: Highlife music, which incorporates Western instruments, was popular in West Africa during colonial times.
Post-Colonial African Music:
After colonial rule, African music underwent a transformation, with musicians drawing inspiration from both Western music and traditional African rhythms. This period saw the rise of genres like Afrobeat, reggae, and more.
Example: Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat, which combines jazz, funk, and traditional African rhythms.
Reading Assignment:
- Research the history of Highlife or Afrobeat and identify key artists from the colonial and post-colonial periods.
Evaluation Questions:
- How did colonialism influence African music?
- What are some characteristics of post-colonial African music genres?
Week 5: Classical Period (1759-1820) – History of the Classical Period
The Classical period of Western music, spanning from approximately 1759 to 1820, marked a time of significant development in music composition and performance. This period saw the rise of well-known composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn.
Key Characteristics:
- Form: The use of clear, structured forms like sonata form, symphony, and concerto.
- Melody: Melodies became more lyrical and easier to follow.
- Harmony: Harmony was refined, with greater use of modulations and key changes.
Reading Assignment:
- Research the works of Ludwig van Beethoven and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, focusing on their contributions during the Classical period.
Evaluation Questions:
- What are the main characteristics of Classical music?
- Who were the most influential composers during the Classical period?
Week 6: Classical Period Continued
This lesson continues exploring the Classical period, focusing on the music forms and composers that defined the era.
Key Composers and Their Contributions:
- Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Known for his symphonies, operas, and chamber music.
- Ludwig van Beethoven: A bridge between the Classical and Romantic periods, known for his symphonies and piano sonatas.
Reading Assignment:
- Analyze the structure of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 or Mozart’s “Eine kleine Nachtmusik”.
Evaluation Questions:
- How did Beethoven’s music mark the transition from the Classical to the Romantic period?
- Discuss the contributions of Mozart to the Classical period.
Week 7 & 8: Nigerian Dance Styles – A Case Study of Popular Nigerian Traditional Dance
Nigerian dance styles are an essential component of the country’s cultural heritage. These dances reflect the diverse ethnic groups and traditions across the nation.
Popular Nigerian Dances:
- Atilogwu: A traditional dance from the Igbo people, characterized by acrobatic movements.
- Akanzo: A Yoruba dance performed during celebratory events, featuring rhythmic movements and intricate footwork.
Reading Assignment:
- Watch a performance of Atilogwu or Akanzo and describe the steps and cultural significance of the dance.
Evaluation Questions:
- What are the characteristics of Atilogwu and Akanzo dances?
- How do Nigerian dances reflect the cultural values of different ethnic groups?
Week 9: Western Dance Styles – European or American Ballet Performance
Ballet is a highly structured dance form that originated in the courts of Renaissance Italy and became refined in France and Russia. It remains a symbol of grace and discipline in the Western world.
Ballet Performance:
Ballet involves precise movements, including pliés, pirouettes, and arabesques. It tells a story through dance, often accompanied by orchestral music.
Reading Assignment:
- Research the history of ballet and its impact on Western dance culture.
Evaluation Questions:
- What are the key elements of a ballet performance?
- How does ballet differ from traditional Nigerian dances?
Week 10: Identification of Triads (Aural Training) and Tonality
Aural training involves developing the ability to identify musical elements by ear. Triads and tonality are fundamental to this process.
Triads Identification:
Being able to identify triads in music involves listening for the intervals between the notes of a chord.
Reading Assignment:
- Listen to a piece of music and identify the triads used in the harmony.
Evaluation Questions:
- What is tonality, and how does it affect the mood of a piece of music?
- How can you identify a triad by ear?
Conclusion
This lesson plan offers a detailed and comprehensive guide to the topics covered in SS2 music education for the second term. By understanding triads, harmonization, African music forms, dance, and the history of classical music, students can gain a well-rounded perspective on the world of music. Each section provides clear explanations, examples, and evaluations to ensure that both beginners and more advanced learners can follow and engage with the material.