Activity 2: Interpreting 4-bar Melodies in Simple Time
Sing the melodies below and take note of the melodic contour
To interpret a melody, the following should be done:
1. Identify the clef, key signature and time signature.
2. Tap the rhythms of the melody.
3. Write tonic sol-fas of the melody below the staff. Remember "doh'’ is the note that gives the key its name, for example, in C major, doh is C,
4. Practise singing the tonic sol-fas of the melody, first in crotchets and then using the correct rhythm.
Notice the movement of successive notes in each of the melodies. Stepwise motion is where the interval between any two neighbouring notes is not more than a step on the scale.
In some cases there can be more than a step between two successive notes of a melody. This type of motion is called skip wise motion or movement by leaps.
Each melody has a shape, which depends on the successive movement of notes. A melody can move upwards, downwards, in waves forming a curve and so on. This is referred to as the melodic shape or contour.
Activity 3: Creating 1-bar Melodies in Simple Time on Treble Clef
Things To Remember
Before you begin creating a melody, you should: draw the staff, add the treble clef, write the key signature of the scale you want to use, and write the time signature you will use.
Work in Pairs
1. What are the qualities of a good melody as was discussed in the previous activity?
2. Practice Writing a 4-bar melody in simple time in major scales of C, G, D and A.
3. Sing or play the melody you have created.
4. Describe the melodic motion and shape or contour.
5. What is the first and the last note in each of the melodies?
Activity 4: Playing or Singing Melodies Created by Self and Others
Can You Recall?
What are the qualities of a good melody?
Work in pairs
1. Take turns to play each other's melodies.
2. Discuss the qualities in each of the melodies played.
Group Activity
With the guidance of your teacher, use mobile apps or computer software to create, notate and play back 4-bar melodies.
Activity 5: Appreciating Melodies Composed by Self and Others
Listen and Learn
1. You have created 4-bar melodies in simple time in the major scales of C, G, D and A
2. In pairs, take turns to sing or play (or use: digital devices to listen to) and appraise each other's melodies.
3. Take turns to sing your melodies to the class.
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