Modern Band Lesson 11

Introduction to Guitar, Bass, and Piano

GUITAR

In this lesson, students are walked through each notation line of “Billie Jean,” simplified using basic rudimentary techniques, which incorporates simple single note melodies on the 1st string with some basic chord strumming, and executing three-note harmonies. The notation for the song is included in a PDF file. In addition to reinforcing letter names of notes as they relate to treble clef notation, as well as rhythmic concepts of eighth notes, eighth rests and whole notes, students will have to shift fret hand positions to execute high A’s as notated and be introduced to notation representations of D, A and Db chords.

Introduction to Reading Music

Note Values

Chromatic Scale on the First String

BASS

In this lesson, students are walked through each notation line of “Believer,” by Imagine Dragons which reinforces notes in bass clef notation, and reviews rhythmic notation of half notes and half rests, as well as reviewing concepts of repeat signs and 1st and 2nd endings.

Reading: Notes on the Fourth String

Download sheet music:

Piano

In this lesson, students are instructed how to build major chords on the piano by correctly creating the half-step intervals that exist between the notes of the triad. Processes for naming chords in relation to its bass notes are covered, and students are guided through a few major chord building examples before being encouraged to discover more of the totality of the twelve major chords on their own that exist on piano.

Intro to Piano: Learning the Notes and Keys