Topic Four (1.4): Define and recognise more complex elements of music

Topics Icon.png Objectives for this topic

In this topic you will revise the more complex elements of rhythm, melody and harmony/tonality.

Skills Icon.png Instructions

  • Use the resources to research the meaning of the more complex elements of music:

Rhythm, melody, harmony and tonality. 

  • Define each element, using the correct Italian terminology where appropriate. Research and learn about the features of each element. Consider how these are used within pieces of music and in your own playing.

Review Icon.png Review

Can you name the more complex elements without having to write them down? You should be able to explain each one concisely and clearly. The correct terminology should be used and you should be able to explain how these are used within pieces of music. 

Bridge Icon.png  Support activity for this topic

EXPLORE - Music Theory Lessons (musictheoryacademy.com) Links to an external site.

EXPLORE - Rhythm (mymusictheory.com) Links to an external site.

Now use the mymusictheory tonic triads exercise, to test your knowledge of melody and harmony, by completing activity A-D. You can choose to download this, or simply use the stave lines to correctly draw out your answers.

USE - Tonic Triads exercises (mymusictheory.com) Links to an external site.

USE - Stave lines Download USE - Stave lines

Stretch Icon.png Extension activity for this topic

Complete a ‘write a rhythm’ exercise, to practise your skills of writing music notation to a given rhythm

EXPLORE - Write a Rhythm Exercise (mymusictheory.com) Links to an external site.