Lesson 3: Performing the Excerpt with Expression
Duration of Days: 180
Lesson Objective
Students will perform the teacher-selected excerpt, using their expanded range and applying basic dynamics and phrasing.
How can I play high and low notes clearly while keeping a good tone?
How can I make the music sound expressive, not just correct notes?
How do dynamics and phrasing make the music more interesting?
Dynamics (loud/soft), phrasing (musical sentences), tone, legato (smooth), staccato (short), expression
MU:Pr4.1.6a: Perform with accuracy, tone, and proper technique
MU:Pr6.1.6a: Demonstrate understanding of expressive qualities in performance
Students rehearse and perform the same excerpt from Lesson 2. Focus is on:
Playing high and low notes accurately.
Applying dynamics and phrasing to make the excerpt musical.
Performing confidently while maintaining tone quality.
“As long as I play the notes, it doesn’t need to sound musical.”
“High notes have to be loud; low notes have to be soft.”
Slow practice first, then gradually increase tempo.
Offer extra challenge by adding dynamic or phrasing variations.
Small group or paired performance for peer support.
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Teacher evaluates tone quality, accurate notes, and expression.
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Students reflect briefly on what was challenging and how they applied new range and dynamics.