Composing signature tunes

Learning Intentions

  • We are learning to develop our understanding of how music can establish mood and atmosphere.
  • We are learning to develop our understanding of the techniques that composers use to create effective signature tunes.
  • We are learning to compose a piece of music which would be appropriate for a news broadcast.

Extension activity

Give the pupils an opportunity to bring in, discuss and/or perform some of their favourite signature tunes.

What to look for

  • Pupils discussing how the elements of music are used in TV theme tunes
  • Pupils identifying the musical ‘hook’ in some TV theme tunes
  • Pupils discussing how rhythm, tempo etc. can be used to effect in TV theme tunes
  • Pupils composing a piece of music suitable for a TV news bulletin
  • Pupils performing their compositions
  • Pupils evaluating their compositions

Learning Activities

Lead a discussion about how theme tunes for television programmes:

  • set the scene for what we are about to see; and
  • manage to grab our attention quickly.

Play some signature tunes, for example:

  • Countdown;
  • Dr Who; and
  • Blue Peter.

Ask the pupils to try to identify and describe the musical ‘hook’ that is used.

Discuss together what type of music might be effective for the opening sequence of a news broadcast, for example:

  • strong rhythms;
  • a stirring theme; and
  • a sense of urgency and importance.

Set groups of pupils the task of composing a piece of music for the opening sequence of a news broadcast.

Allow time for them to perform and appraise their compositions.