Page 68 - Year 10 Knowledge Organiser

BTEC Music: 5 of 9

Structure

Analysing the structure a song involves examining various aspects of the composition's form, arrangement, and organisation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with the analysis:
Consider Harmonic Progressions: Analyse the harmonic progression of the
Listen to the Song: Start by listening to the pop song attentively. Pay close
1 attention to how the music unfolds over time, noting any changes in 6 song, including the chords used in each section and how they contribute to
dynamics, instrumentation, or texture. the overall tonal structure. Identify any key changes or modulations that
occur throughout the song and how they affect the mood and energy.

Identify Sections and Phrases: Divide the song into sections such as verse, Evaluate Arrangement and Instrumentation: Evaluate the arrangement of
chorus, bridge, and any other distinct parts. Each section typically has its own instruments and voices within the song. Notice how different instruments
2 melody, lyrics, and chord progression. Identify phrases within each section, 7 and vocal parts interact to create the overall sound. Identify instrumental
which are smaller units of musical ideas that contribute to the overall solos, melodic hooks, or other standout features that add interest and
structure. variation to the arrangement.

Relate Structure to Lyrics and Theme: Consider how the musical structure
Analyse Repetition and Contrast: Look for patterns of repetition and
contrast within the song. Repetition creates familiarity and reinforces key relates to the song's lyrics and theme. Note any instances where the music
3 musical elements, while contrast adds variety and interest. Note any 8 mirrors or reinforces the lyrical content, enhancing the emotional impact of
the song. Analyze how the structural features contribute to the storytelling
repeated melodies, chord progressions, or rhythmic motifs, as well as or message of the song, conveying themes of love, loss, empowerment, or
contrasting sections that introduce new material or change the mood.
other subjects.

Examine Dynamics and Texture: Analyse changes in dynamics (loudness and Provide Examples and Evidence: Support your analysis with specific
softness) and texture (the density and arrangement of musical elements)
4 throughout the song. Identify moments of buildup and release, where the 9 examples from the song, including musical notation or audio excerpts. Refer
to structural features such as verse-chorus form, instrumental breaks,
music builds tension and then resolves it through changes in volume, dynamic changes, and thematic development to illustrate your points.
instrumentation, or intensity.

Identify Transitional Elements: Look for transitional elements that connect
different sections of the song. This could include instrumental breaks, drum 10 Draw Conclusions: Summarise your analysis by drawing conclusions about
5 fills, or melodic hooks that signal a change in mood or direction. Pay the structural characteristics of the pop song. Consider how the song's
structure contributes to its overall effectiveness and appeal, and reflect on
attention to how transitional elements bridge the gap between sections and its significance within the context of the genre and style.
maintain the listener's interest.