Sonic Explorations: An Introduction to Experimental Music

• Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3)
• Upper Secondary (Key Stage 4)
• Special Education

Sonic Explorations: An Introduction to Experimental Music

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will understand the basic historical context of experimental music and be able to create a short soundscape using found sounds.

What do you already know about experimental music?

What is Experimental Music?

Experimental music challenges traditional notions of melody, harmony, rhythm, and structure. It often involves unconventional sound sources and techniques.

Historical Context

Experimental music emerged in the 20th century, influenced by developments in technology, avant-garde art, and philosophical ideas about sound and music.

Listening Examples

Play excerpts from influential experimental music compositions, showcasing a variety of techniques and approaches.

Found Sounds

Found sounds are everyday noises that can be used as musical elements in a composition. They can include anything from nature sounds to industrial noises.

Soundscape Composition

Guide students in creating a short soundscape using the found sounds they've collected. Emphasize experimentation and creativity in their compositions.

Sharing and Feedback

Students present their soundscape compositions to the class, discussing the inspiration behind their choices and receiving feedback from their peers.

Reflection and Discussion

Lead a reflective discussion on the experience of creating experimental music. Encourage students to share their thoughts and insights.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.