Module 1

The Brassketeers

Musical Math-e-magic

This first module introduces musical notation, beats and rhythms, using pattern recognition and simple counting exercises. A range of games and movement-based activities offer opportunities to take learning out of the classroom.

Forward Planning Grids (PDF)

Lesson 1 – Know Your Notes

Learn about the symbols used to write music. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Name the different symbols used to write music, including notes and bar lines
  • Identify a whole note, a minim, a crotchet and a quaver
  • Match note names to their music symbols

Download Module 1 – Lesson 1 resources:

Lesson 2 – Pattern Spotters

Use your knowledge of note names to spot and build patterns using musical notes. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Identify different types of note in a pattern
  • Discuss patterns in a sequence of notes
  • Complete an unfinished pattern made using musical notes

Download Module 1 – Lesson 2 resources:

Lesson 3 – Beat It!

Learn about musical beats, explore the relationship between musical beats and maths, and learn how many beats are in each musical note. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Talk about what a musical beat is
  • Say how many beats are in each different note

Download Module 1 – Lesson 3 resources:

Lesson 4 – Musical Maths

Learn about musical beats and explore the relationship between musical beats and counting. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Explain how many beats each note lasts for
  • Solve simple addition calculations where musical notes represent numbers

Download Module 1 – Lesson 4 resources:

Lesson 5 – Putting It All Together

Explore the relationship between music and maths, and review what you've learned so far. At the end of this lesson, you will review:

  • Matching note names to their musical symbols
  • Matching note names with their fraction symbol

Download Module 1 – Lesson 5 resources:

Supporters

Supported by Scottish Opera's Education Angels
With thanks to the Educational Institute of Scotland for a donation towards the cost of The Brassketeers