Printing music on a page allows a composer to convey information to a musician who will ultimately perform that composer’s work. The more detailed the musical notation, the more precise a performer will be. In this sense, musical notation is no different from printed text.

As Music 1 assumes no prior knowledge of musical notation beyond the basic introduction in Stage 4 mandatory music, this unit was designed to revisit elementary musical skills and understanding across a range of instruments found in vocal groups, small ensembles, orchestras and bands.

This assessment task explored the students’ ability to master different types of notation demonstrating high levels of skill and to aurally analyse a predetermined excerpt of music, addressing the focus concept of the unit of work. Check out Tom’s response which incorporates a range of notations to support his excellent written observations.