Lesson 2: Listening, Blending, and Balancing Advanced

How do I balance my part with harmonies or multiple lines?

How do phrasing and dynamics affect ensemble sound?

Blend, balance, dynamics, phrasing, tone quality, ensemble, harmony

NAfME 2.1: Perform in an ensemble with proper balance and tone.

NAfME 2.3: Adjust playing based on listening to others.

MU:Pr6.1.6a: Apply expressive qualities in performance.

Students learn to listen and adjust for multi-part textures, reinforcing musicality and expression.

Louder = more important.

Ignore pitch or tone when focusing on rhythm.

Highlight sections with harmonies for focus.

Advanced students lead dynamics and phrasing modeling.

Teacher observation; peer feedback; section leader reports.