Holdet S7MU4ENA (2025/26) - Undervisningsbeskrivelse

Undervisningsbeskrivelse

Stamoplysninger til brug ved prøver til gymnasiale uddannelser
Termin(er) 2024/25 - 2025/26
Institution European School Copenhagen Upper Secondary
Fag og niveau Musik A
Lærer(e)
Hold 2023 MU (S6MU4ENA, S7MU4ENA)

Oversigt over gennemførte undervisningsforløb
Titel 1 Hip Hop
Titel 2 Modern R&B
Titel 3 Motown
Titel 4 Evolution of Music and Fundamental Elements Part 1
Titel 5 B-test (Week 49)
Titel 6 The Evolution of Classical Music Part 1
Titel 7 American Minimalism
Titel 8 Revision for B-test
Titel 9 Jazz fusion
Titel 10 Research projekt, performance & portofolie
Titel 11 The evolution of classical music 3
Titel 12 Japanese music (Topic 4)
Titel 13 Bac - Revision
Titel 14 Research project

Beskrivelse af de enkelte undervisningsforløb (1 skema for hvert forløb)
Titel 1 Hip Hop

Hip Hop with an emphasis on its developments in the 21st Century


Lesson plan:
1) 19/8 The hip hop evolution - Todays topic is hip hop evolution. How did hip originate? How did the genre evolve since the end of the1970s to now. We will learn about hip hop as a cultural movement and as a genre of music. Focus: making a timeline.
2) 22/8 Hip hop stylistic differences - Today we will discuss the ways in which regional tastes differ and how other popular music from a region have influenced the evolution of Hip Hop music.
3) 26/8 What is hip hop and what is rap - Today we a going to play 2Pacs "Changes" and talk about the difference between rap and hip hop and how they intertwine with each other. Read the following overview about hip vs. rap.
4) 27/8 Back to the roots - Today we are going all the way back to examine the roots of hip hop. How is blues connected to hip hop. We will study technical music terms in blues music; minor 7th, blue notes and 12-bar blues.
5) 2/9 - Today we are going to talk about the fusions between hip hop and jazz. We are going to understand the concepts "Flow", "improvisation", "sampling" and "looping". We will listen to music examples and see how they use improvisation, flow and examen how jazz and rap co-exist in the songs. How do the songs addressee socio-political issues such as poverty, racism, and the life of African Americans? How do they use sampling and looping?
6) 5/9 - hip hop composition - create our own rap lyrics.
7)    9/9 - Hip hop composition - create our own beats and music for the rap.
8)    10/9 - Hip hop performance
9)    16/9 - Today we will focus on the connection between hip hop and graffitti and your hip hop performances.
10)  19/9 - Presentation of a artist you have choosen. The presentation is individual and should last 5-7 minutes. You can choose between the following artists; Kanye West, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Dr Dre, Eminem, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Ludacris, T.I , Wiz Khalifa, Lil Wayne, but you cannot choose the same artist as one of your class mates. 


This topic addresses the overall topic heading by focusing on the music and performances of contemporary composers, musicians and singers of the 21st century, without forgetting their historic links with other styles of music. The study of the topic will include :

Elements of Hip-Hop:
Explore the core elements of hip-hop culture: rapping, graffiti art, and
breakdancing. Students will learn about the contributions of key figures in each of these areas and how they have influenced the evolution of hip-hop.

Social and Political Impact:
Analysis of the social and political significance of hip-hop as a form of
expression for marginalized communities. Discussion about how hip-hop has been used to address issues such as racism, police brutality, poverty, and inequality, and how it has served as a platform for activism and social change.

Musical Evolution with a focus on the 21st century:
Tracking of the musical evolution of hip-hop, from its early days as party music and street poetry to its transformation into a multi-billion dollar industry encompassing a wide range of styles and subgenres, including gangsta rap, conscious hip-hop, trap music, etc.

The study should be based primarily around the music of Hip Hop singers with a particular emphasis on the 21st century ; Kanye West, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Dr Dre, Eminem, Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Ludacris, T.I , Wiz Khalifa, Lil Wayne etc.

Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: 20,00 moduler
Dækker over: 20 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 2 Modern R&B

Modern R&B

The focus of this topic is to help students understand the sound, structure, and production techniques of modern R&B, as well as the emotional depth that defines the genre. Students will explore harmonic progressions, vocal delivery, production styles, and lyrical content that typify the genre. Additionally, students will get hands-on experience by performing Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You,” analyzing its musical components, and composing their own R&B pieces.

Learning Objectives:

Identify the characteristics of modern R&B – Recognize key features such as chord progressions, rhythmic patterns, and instrumentation that distinguish R&B from other genres.

Analyze contemporary R&B songs – Break down elements of popular R&B songs, focusing on lyrical themes, harmonic structure, rhythm, and production techniques.

Understand vocal techniques in R&B – Explore the vocal style that defines modern R&B, including the use of melisma, falsetto, and emotional delivery.

Compose an R&B song – Apply knowledge of harmony, melody, rhythm, and lyrics to create an original modern R&B song.

Perform “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys – Learn and perform this iconic song, focusing on the stylistic and technical aspects of modern R&B.

Discuss the evolution of R&B – Understand how R&B has evolved from its origins to its modern form, influenced by cultural and technological shifts.

Collaborate in group performances – Work together to interpret and perform R&B pieces, improving musical communication and teamwork skills.
Indhold
Kernestof:

Skriftligt arbejde:
Titel Afleveringsdato
R&B Composition 04-11-2024
Omfang Estimeret: 12,00 moduler
Dækker over: 9 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 3 Motown

The Impact of Motown Records and the Motown Sound: A Focus on The Temptations and Michael Jackson

Motown Records, founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy in Detroit, Michigan, became a revolutionary force in the music industry, shaping not only the sound of a generation but also bridging racial divides in America. The label developed a unique and recognizable style, often referred to as the "Motown Sound." This sound is characterized by its polished production, catchy melodies, intricate basslines, and a blend of soulful vocals with pop sensibilities. The Motown Sound also incorporated elements such as tambourines to accentuate the backbeat, a prominent use of horns, and complex layered arrangements that created a rich, full-bodied musical texture.

One of the most successful and influential acts under the Motown label was The Temptations. Known for their smooth harmonies, sophisticated choreography, and timeless hits like "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg," The Temptations epitomized the Motown Sound. Their music often featured lush string arrangements, tight vocal harmonies, and driving rhythms, all hallmarks of the label’s production style. The group’s dynamic performances and vocal versatility allowed them to navigate a variety of genres, from doo-wop and R&B to soul and funk, making them one of Motown's most enduring acts.

The influence of Motown extended beyond the northern borders of Detroit and permeated the Southern soul music scene, sometimes referred to as "Southern Soul." While Motown was known for its polished, pop-oriented sound, Southern Soul was characterized by a rawer, grittier style that often featured emotive vocal performances, earthy instrumentation, and themes that reflected the struggles and triumphs of the African American experience in the South. Despite these differences, the crossover between the two styles is evident in the shared emphasis on emotional expression and the prominent role of the rhythm section in driving the music.

Michael Jackson, who began his career with The Jackson 5 under the Motown label, also played a significant role in the evolution of the Motown Sound. The Jackson 5's music, with hits like "I Want You Back" and "ABC," exemplified the label’s ability to create music that was both commercially successful and artistically innovative. Michael Jackson's early work with Motown showcased his extraordinary vocal talent and set the stage for his later achievements as the "King of Pop." His music during this period retained the infectious rhythms, melodic hooks, and impeccable production that were the hallmarks of the Motown Sound, while also incorporating elements of funk and disco that would later define his solo career.
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: 14,00 moduler
Dækker over: 14 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 4 Evolution of Music and Fundamental Elements Part 1

Topic: Evolution of Music and Fundamental Elements

Description: In this topic, students will explore the evolution of music, tracing its development through various eras, styles, and cultural influences. The course will focus on understanding the basic elements of music, such as timbre (the unique quality of sound), harmony (the combination of different musical notes), and chords (groups of notes played together). Additionally, students will learn about the Circle of Fifths, a key tool for understanding musical relationships and progressions. A significant portion of the course will also be dedicated to analyzing and interpreting sheet music, enabling students to develop strong reading and performance skills.

Learning objectives:

- Gain a historical perspective on the evolution of music across time periods and genres.
- Understand and apply fundamental musical concepts such as timbre, harmony, and chords.
- Master the Circle of Fifths to comprehend musical key relationships.
- Develop the ability to read, interpret, and analyze sheet music.
- Enhance musical literacy and prepare for practical music performance or composition.
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: 6,00 moduler
Dækker over: 14 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 5 B-test (Week 49)

The B-test is on the 2nd of december 2 times 45 min.
The B-test is about hip hip evolution
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 3 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 6 The Evolution of Classical Music Part 1

Topic: The Evolution of Classical Music

This topic delves into the rich and diverse evolution of classical music, starting from the Gregorian Chant of the medieval period to the groundbreaking developments of atonal music by composers like Arnold Schönberg. Students will explore the technical musical terms and stylistic characteristics that define key periods in music history, including the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic eras.

A central focus of this course is the historical development of musical textures:

1) Monophony (from the Medieval period), where music consists of a single melodic line without accompaniment. ca. 500–1400
2) Polyphony (from the Baroque period), characterized by multiple independent melodies interacting with each other. ca. 1600–1750.
3) Homophony (from the Classical period), where a primary melody is supported by accompanying harmony. ca. 1750–1820.

By examining these textural shifts, students will develop the ability to distinguish between musical pieces from different periods. The course will highlight how composers throughout history innovated with texture, form, and harmony, ultimately leading to the expressive and dramatic heights of the Romantic period.

Learning Objectives:

- Understand the historical development of classical music from Gregorian Chant to atonal music.
- Learn key musical terms and concepts from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods.
- Develop listening skills to identify and distinguish between monophonic, polyphonic, and homophonic textures.
- Analyze the stylistic differences between music from different historical periods.
- Gain insight into how composers shaped the evolution of classical music through innovations in texture and harmony.
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 18 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 7 American Minimalism

American Minimalism in the 1960s and 1970s with a focus on the ‘process’ music of Steve Reich. Set work: Drumming (Part 1) by Steve Reich (b. 1936).

Through studying the development of this ‘process’ based music, students will gain an understanding of the compositional forces driving contemporary music in New York in the 1960s and 1970s. They can explore, and make comparisons with, later music that stems from this thinking, such as ambient music or the early evolution of electronic dance music (EDM), or concurrent styles such as the additive and subtractive rhythms of Philip Glass, or the minimal music of Terry Riley.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the Key Concepts of Minimalism:

Students will define minimalism in music, with particular attention to its repetitive structures, gradual process, and use of limited materials, focusing on Steve Reich’s role in shaping this movement.

Explore the ‘Process’ Music of Steve Reich:

Students will explain the concept of ‘process’ music, particularly how Reich’s “Drumming (Part 1)” exemplifies phase-shifting, rhythmic layering, and the gradual transformation of simple patterns over time.
Analyze “Drumming (Part 1)”:

Students will analyze the compositional techniques in “Drumming (Part 1),” such as the use of additive rhythms, gradual phase shifts, and the interaction between percussion instruments, identifying how these contribute to the overall structure and sound.
Investigate the Historical and Cultural Context:

Students will explore the cultural and musical context of New York in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly the influence of Reich’s contemporaries, like Terry Riley and Philip Glass, as well as the larger minimalist art movement.

Make Connections to Later Music:

Students will compare Reich’s process-based techniques with later musical developments, such as ambient music and early electronic dance music (EDM), identifying similarities and differences in compositional approach.

Compare with Other Minimalist Composers:

Students will compare Steve Reich’s techniques in “Drumming” with those of other minimalist composers, such as Philip Glass’s additive/subtractive rhythms or Terry Riley’s modular, repetitive structures in works like "In C."
Apply Minimalist Techniques in Composition and Performance:

Students will experiment with minimalist compositional techniques by creating their own short rhythmic or melodic processes, inspired by Reich’s “Drumming,” and reflect on how these processes shape musical texture and form.

Critically Evaluate the Influence of Minimalism:

Students will critically assess the lasting impact of minimalist techniques on contemporary music genres, such as electronic, ambient, and minimalist-inspired classical music, and discuss how Reich’s ideas influenced later developments in music technology and composition.

Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 21 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 8 Revision for B-test

I B-testen er der en A-del og en B-del. I A-delen er der auditiv analyse med valgmuligheder. Her indgår barok, wienerklassik, et enkelt spørgsmål om romantik, blues og Motown. I B-delen er der uddybende spørgsmål, som kræver en mere dybdegående analyse og et længere skriftligt svar. Her er emnerne: Motown og minimalisme.

In the B-test, there is a Part A and a Part B. Part A consists of auditory analysis with multiple-choice questions. It includes Baroque, Viennese Classicism, a single question on Romanticism, Blues, and Motown. Part B consists of in-depth questions that require more detailed analysis and a longer written response. The topics here are Motown and Minimalism.
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 14 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 9 Jazz fusion

The students will get a brief overview of the development of jazz, from cool jazz to modal, free, and fusion jazz. We will focus mainly on the works of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and Weather Report.

We will begin with a short history of jazz fusion, then focus on Miles Davis’ transition from his more traditional jazz period — including an analysis of So What from Kind of Blue (1959) — to his move into jazz rock/jazz fusion with Bitches Brew (1970). We will also examine his experimental album On the Corner (1972), with an analysis of Black Satin and the philosophical influences from minimalism in the 1960s, as well as elements from Indian music such as the raga, sitar, and tabla.

Next, we will look at Herbie Hancock’s career and artistic development, with a particular focus on his groundbreaking album Head Hunters (1973) and a detailed analysis of Chameleon, the album’s opening track.

During the topic, the students will perform versions of So What and Chameleon and compose their own modal jazz piece. In these sessions, they will learn improvisation techniques and have the opportunity to practice improvising themselves.

At the end of the topic, the students will create a video blog in which they choose a jazz fusion artist, present the artist’s career, and analyze a chosen piece — performing excerpts and explaining analytical points in their presentation.
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 25 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 10 Research projekt, performance & portofolie

Del A:
- Research Project
- Opførsel af de to performances
- Afl. af komposition

Del B:
- Portfolio
- Skriftlige eksamen

Research Project
This is a compulsory element and provides the opportunity for the student to deepen their knowledge through researching an aspect of music which supports their development as a performer and/or composer. Students may, for example, research an aspect of performance practice relating to their instrumental/vocal study or the background of a composer or musical tradition in which they are particularly interested or analyse a piece they are to perform. Other examples might include investigating the potential of a piece of composing software or looking into a particular musical tradition which they might wish to draw upon in their composing. The project should take the form of a written paper or web-based page of approximately 1500 words which can be supported by a variety of multi-media resources.


Læs side 26 og frem med eleverne.
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 13 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer


Titel 12 Japanese music (Topic 4)

Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 27 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 13 Bac - Revision

Revision of the four compulsory topics for the written bac:

Hip hop
Minimalism
Jazz fusion
Japanese music
Indhold
Kernestof:
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 7 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer

Titel 14 Research project

Eksamensforberedelse

Del A:
- Research Project
- Opførsel af de to performances
- Afl. af komposition

Del B:
- Portfolio
- Skriftlige eksamen
Indhold
Omfang Estimeret: Ikke angivet
Dækker over: 0 moduler
Særlige fokuspunkter
Væsentligste arbejdsformer