Topic One (1.1): Disco Time!

Topics Icon.png Objectives for this topic

This topic will introduce you to Disco music. You will learn about the typical time signature used to create the desired sound in Disco music, as well as special features of this genre that relate to time and tempo. You will also explore the sounds of the range of Disco and artists associated with this lively, dance-based genre.

Quiz Icon.png Instructions

  • Read through the Disco Time Powerpoint, with video links, to learn about the time signature of Disco music, the typical BPM (beats per minute) and other unique characteristics of this music. Take time to explore the genre for yourself, selecting some of the suggested influential Disco artists’ work to listen to.

 

DOWNLOAD – Disco Time Download DOWNLOAD – Disco Time

Review Icon.png Review

  • Can you describe the Disco features of Four on the Floor and reverb confidently?
  • What is the typical BPM range of Disco music?
  • Have you listened to the examples of Disco music in order to hear the 4/4 time? Have you also found examples of your own?

Bridge Icon.png  Support activity for this topic

Make notes from the resources to add to the Time Signatures Research Task resource, which you can use to write up you research. It can also act as a revision aid for later on in this module.

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Stretch Icon.png Extension activity for this topic

Listen to the two songs given in the extension task in the Disco Time PowerPoint. Can you guess which one matches the time signatures described in the task?  In your opinion, consider how the use of a different time signature impacts upon the experience for the listener and performer?