Virtual Compositions

GRADES 9-12 MUSIC AND TECHNOLOGY

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When it comes to arts integration in high school, the standards don’t always make it easy.  That’s because high school arts standards need to provide pathways for students who haven’t had additional arts experiences in elementary and/or middle school, as well as for those who have access to the arts all the way through their learning experience. So trying to integrate the arts appropriately at this level can prove challenging by making a virtual compositions lesson plan.

That’s why today’s arts integration music and technology lesson plan is so exciting.  It connects both a music composition standard with one of the new 2016 ISTE standards for a truly unique and accessible integrated learning opportunity.  This high school music virtual compositions lesson plan is based on the work of innovative contemporary composer/conductor Eric Whitacre, who founded the Virtual Choir.  The Virtual Choir provides a way for people all over the world to sing together without ever being in the same room.  In this technology integrated lesson, we’re using this concept as a springboard to other ways students can utilize digital media in music composition.

How does digital media affect how music is created and consumed? Begin by exploring the Virtual Choir concept pioneered by Eric Whitacre: http:// ericwhitacre.com/the-virtual-choir Listen/watch the process and the product.

Lesson Process:

Step 1: Get students into groups of 6-8. Each group will create a 2-minute video music composition.

Step 2: Provide each group with up to 30 minutes to plan their composition format, theme and target audience. Students may use a current piece of music as a jumping off point for an arrangement, or may create an entirely new composition.

Step 3:  Students will then work to create their composition. They may use any technology that is available, including their own devices, internet, recording software (such as Audacity, GarageBand, or others).

Step 4:  Students will then perform their composition using their video as a presentation medium. They may choose to just show the video or to perform live with the video. Students must share their intended audience and purpose for their composition.

Time Required:
30-45 minutes

Materials List:

  • Internet, Computers/Devices, Speakers
  • Recording software
  • Projection device
  • Sheet music selections
  • Pencils, composition paper

Assessment:

Peer Feedback Prompts.

1. Was the intended audience and purpose clear in the composition presentation?

2. How did the digital media chosen effect the musical presentation, quality, and format?

3. What was unique and different about this composition (both musically and technologically)?