Musical Eras
Objective: This worksheet aims to introduce students to the a chosen musical era, its key characteristics, important composers, and influential works, while also demonstrating the enduring legacy of this period through a modern-day connection.
Content and methods: The worksheet provides an informational text about a musical era, covering its origin, defining characteristics, and notable composers and their works. Students are then required to extract this information and fill out a profile template with details like the era's name, time period, characteristics, important representatives, and works. The worksheet also introduces two musicians, and features a simulated chat between them. Students answer comprehension questions based on this chat. The worksheet concludes with a crossword puzzle to reinforce vocabulary and facts related to the musical era and its figures.
Competencies:
- Reading comprehension
- Information extraction and summarization
- Knowledge acquisition about musical history and theory
- Understanding of historical influence and continuity
- Vocabulary building (through crossword)
Target group: primary school, middle school, high school
55 other teachers use this template
Target group and level
primary school, middle school, high school
Subjects
Musical Eras
Eras of music
The history of music encompasses many interesting eras that have influenced one another. In this worksheet, you will learn about a specific musical era in more detail. First, read through the following informational text and then fill out the profile on the next page.
Two musicians
Now get to know two musicians/composers - one person is directly from the presented musical era, while the other lives today but is closely connected to the music of the presented era.
A chat between two musicians
Imagine there was a way to chat with a person from a past musical era. If that were possible, the conversation might look something like this.
Johann Sebastian Bach
Hello Mr. Bach! It’s such an honor to speak with you. Your music has had a huge impact on my career and the classical music world.
Greetings, Frau Hewitt! It pleases me greatly to hear that my compositions still resonate. Pray, how is my music received in your time?
Your music is adored, Mr. Bach. Pieces like the Well-Tempered Clavier and the Goldberg Variations are still very popular. They are essential for pianists to learn and perform.
That is wonderful news! I composed the Well-Tempered Clavier to explore different tuning systems. How do musicians approach these works today?
We focus on both technical skill and emotional expression. Understanding the historical context helps us connect with your intentions, but we also aim to bring new life to each performance.
Music must indeed evolve while keeping its core. How has my work influenced modern music and musicians?
Your influence is immense, Mr. Bach. Many composers and musicians study your techniques to enhance their own music. Your contrapuntal style and harmonic innovations are key elements in music education today.
It warms my heart to know my efforts have such lasting impact. Music truly bridges time. Continue to share its beauty, Frau Hewitt.
Absolutely, Mr. Bach. Your music is a timeless treasure, and I’m dedicated to keeping its spirit alive for future generations. Thank you for your incredible contributions.
You honor me greatly. May your music continue to inspire and delight. Farewell, Frau Hewitt.