L3 - The Bassline

Lesson Objectives:

  • To understand how to create a simple bass line using root notes

  • To improvise instrumental a capella lines

  • To perform a capella instrumental backing tracks

Lesson 3 - A capella.pptx

Riff or Ostinato

Listen to the following short clips of music and decide whether to describe them as a riff or an ostinato and the reason for your decision

Bassline

Bassline is a term in pop music to describe the low-pitched line, often played by the bass guitar. In classical music this might be played by a cello or double bass. The simplest bassline is made up of the root notes of the chords being played. In your 4 chord mash up in F major these are:

F C D Bb

Snapshot Task:

Task:

You are looking for a solo singer to perform with you a capella group and need to create an accompaniment for potential soloists. This needs to follow the four chord trick in F major I - V - VI - IV.


Success:

  • Make use of a variety of vocal sounds, including a rhythm section, with different articulations (legato/staccato) and dynamic contrast.

  • Plan how you are going to layer the riffs so they fit together.

  • Perform with fluency, accuracy and confidence.


Process

Use the grid below you guide you in your group work.