Work out by ear how to play moderately easy tunes or accompaniments, e.g. with a wider range of intervals and different octaves/positions
On drum kit and other untuned percussion, encourage learners to build up by ear a repertoire of grooves/rhythms in a wider range of styles, e.g. swing, bossa nova, waltz.
On pitched percussion, ask learners to play by ear familiar tunes that include some simple chromatic writing and modulations.
Regular playing by ear helps to build confidence. Familiar tunes can be worked out during individual practice and then played again in the lesson.
Discuss the effect of accidentals and what needs to be done in order to modulate from one key to another.
Ask learners to work out some of the underlying harmonies. Discuss possible alternatives. Explain that chromatic writing may be decorative and therefore does not require harmonisation.
Ask learners to vary tunes by using alternative melodic and/or rhythmic patterns. Discuss the variations.
Improvise on the given tune and extend the piece for fun.
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