Resources:
Learning by Ear

This Learning By Ear module resource (PowerPoint presentation, PDF, films and website content) can be used and shared free of charge for non-commercial educational use only. Permission must be sought from Orchestras for All and EFDSS for any other use of this material. 

Teaching the accompaniment first is a useful way to help your ensemble further internalise the sound world of the piece, and also ensures that members who are at an earlier stage skill level and may struggle with a more complicated melody feel included and able to engage from the outset.

Watch

Emily begins by modelling the bassline of the piece (video 7):

Reflect

• How does Emily guide LYFE through the bassline?

Practise

Try learning the bassline along with the LYFE ensemble.

First, clap the rhythm (video 8):

Reflect

• How does Emily split up clapping the rhythm to help the group learn it?

Practise

Next, transfer the A section onto your instrument  (video 9):

Reflect

• Why does Emily ask LYFE questions about the shape of the note pattern before playing?

Practise

Once you're comfortable with the A section, move onto the B section (video 10):

Reflect

• How does Emily reintroduce this section and bring back the A section?

Practise

Finally, put together the full bassline pattern (video 11):

Reflect

• How does Emily develop this activity as the ensemble are playing?
• Imagine you are introducing Sharp Academy Orchestra to this bassline. How would you adapt this activity to help Ali and Zac access it?
• Make a list of your top five tips for teaching a bassline aurally.

You can refresh your memory of the needs of Ali and Zac here.