“Teach music and singing at school in such a way that it is not a torture but a joy for the pupil; instil a thirst for finer music in him, a thirst which will last for a lifetime.” ~ Zoltan Kodály. When we use reverse chronology, we initiate an understanding of the concepts of music through the music of our students’ generation and their culture. This approach is not new; it is specified in the new Queensland Senior Music Syllabus for example. So how do we best use this approach to develop aural skills and musicianship and apply this to creative compositions and expressive performances? It isn’t often that teachers get to collaborate with other teachers across the country. With a focus on the secondary curriculum, teachers will be presented with contemporary music examples, and through a series of speed-dating type discussions, will analyse the music and consider how we can apply our aural pedagogy to work backwards, and instil a sense of curiosity and musical exploration that will inspire our students. Guided by the presenter, participants will explore questions such as, but not limited to:
• How might we use contemporary music as the gateway for a broad analysis of modal music throughout time?
• How do we use reverse chronology to develop improved technique, skill, expression and analysis of vocal music throughout time?
• How might the pop music 4 chord progression and heavy metal riffs act as the gateway to understanding the historical development and application of melodic motif, ostinato and ground bass in compositions of different styles and genres?
• How can we use accessible technologies, online resources and games to improve musicianship and extend composition and performance technique? Participants will have the opportunity to share repertoire suggestions and pedagogical approaches with the group. In the spirit of collaboration and Kodály-inspired practice in the 21st Century, all resources provided by the presenter and shared by workshop participants will be collated into a Google Document available to workshop participants. A link will be provided at the conclusion of the session.
MIDDLE SECONDARY (MS),
UPPER SECONDARY (US)