For each critical listening exercise, create a new post on your class blog. Use the song (or video) name and the artist/band name as the post title.
For songs, use the prompts listed below as a guides. Answer a minimum of 4 questions in the objective and subjective categories. You may also add your own observations and comments.
Critical Listening activities are worth 5 points. If you are absent for a critical listening activity, you are responsible for contacting Ms. Linza or a classmate for a link to the song or video.
OBJECTIVE OBSERVATIONS - pick 4 Take notes while listening.
What is the time signature?
What is the tempo?
Does it sound mainly major or minor?
What is the dynamic range (loud, soft…)?
What instruments do you hear? Or does it sound synthesizer/computer-generated?
If there are lyrics, what are they about?
Is there a refrain/chorus or a repeating motif or melodic or rhythmic gesture?
Is there a discernable form? (AB, ABA, Verse/Chorus/Bridge…)
Are there any musical quotes or samples?
Does it sound composed or improvised?
What time period and/or country did this music come from?
SUBJECTIVE OBSERVATIONS - pick 4 Write a few sentences after the song is played. ***Use specific examples from the music to support your observations***
What is the song’s purpose?
Does the song take you on a journey?
Does it remind me of anything or evoke any memories?
Does the song sound like it’s from a specific time period or by a specific artist?
What is the mood of the song? How does it make me feel?
If you had to classify the genre or style, what would it be?
Describe the tone of the singer(s) or main instrument(s)
Does the title and/or lyrics compliment or contrast with the music? To what effect?
CONCLUSION - answer both questions
Do I like it? (yes/no/so-so/not sure…)
Why or why not?
If you generally like the song, explain why you like it. Perhaps try to state one constructive criticism of the song.
If you generally don’t like it, try to find something positive to say about it. Why might someone else like this song?