Lesson 2: Listening and Blending

How can my sound fit with the group?
What does it mean to “blend” in music?

blend, balance, dynamics, phrasing, ensemble, tone quality

NAfME 2.1 – Perform in an ensemble with appropriate balance and tone
NAfME 2.3 – Adjust playing based on listening to others

Teaches students to listen to each other and modify their sound for a unified ensemble tone.

Students may think louder playing makes them more “important.”
Students may ignore pitch or tone quality when focusing on rhythm.

Highlight one section at a time for dynamic practice.
Allow advanced students to experiment with leading dynamics while beginners focus on matching.

• Teacher observation of dynamic control.

• Peer feedback on how well sections blend.