Two new vocabulary words were added to our list today: dynamics (the musical symbols that determine expressiveness, how loud or softly to perform) and timbre (the distinctive tone quality of an instrument). Students reviewed six standard symbols for dynamics and applied them to a performance on drums and chant. Here are the dynamic ranges and their corresponding symbols:
- ff (fortissimo) = extremely full or loud
- f (forte) = full or loud
- mf (mezzo forte) = medium loud
- mp (mezzo piano) = medium soft
- p (piano) = soft or quiet
- pp (pianissimo) = extremely soft or quiet
Students explored the different timbre of objects in the classroom such as books, doors, and metal stools, and experimented with different ways of making sounds with them. After selecting their object, students created short, improvised polyrhythmic pieces and performed in small groups. The performances may be repeated tomorrow and recorded for a podcast.
We also examined the five categories of instruments as determined by anthropologists: Aerophones, Idiophones, Membranophones, Chordophones, and Electrophones. Click Here to download the Instrumental Timbre categories and their descriptions. Print this handout and have your child complete it and turn it in for extra credit!
PROJECT INFORMATION
This week's project is "My Instrument", which students will prepare and create at home. The project objectives are for students to consider how sound is produced, experiment with different materials (such as metal, plastic, and wood), and create their own instrument from ordinary household items. Projects are DUE this FRIDAY, August 29th. Click Here to download the project guidelines and grading policy.
Check out these links to web sites that feature instructions
for making your own instruments.
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