Project description: This activity takes place at the end of 8th grade music classes as a fun

reward for a year well-done. Students synthesize and apply all of their musical knowledge in
order to create a unique variation on a short pentatonic melody using music production
software. The melody varies depending on the course (the example instructions below were
written for a band class, so the main theme is Hot Cross Buns). The teacher then compiles all
variations into a giant class Theme and Variations composition. The composers of each
variation remain anonymous to the class, but after listening to all variations, students choose
their favorite variation number to write about. The student whose composition is most often
written about is revealed and awarded a prize.

State Standards:
8.MU:Cr1 Generate rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic phrases and harmonic accompaniments
within expanded forms (including introductions, transitions, and codas) that convey expressive
intent.

8.MU:Cr3.1a Evaluate personal work by selecting and applying criteria including appropriate
application of compositional techniques, style, form, and use of sound sources.

Prof.MU:T.Cr1 Generate melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic ideas for compositions or

improvisations using digital tools.

Instructions for students:

 Create a free student account at soundtrap.com using the code ______________.

 Watch the introductory video.
 Compose a 30 second variation on Hot Cross Buns. Do not use any templates.
 Fill out the rubric below and answer the question on the back of the page.
 Make changes to your composition as necessary.
 Download your work as an mp3 file and email it to Ms. Matthews. Include your name
somewhere in the email.
 Turn in this page.

RUBRIC
PROFICIENT COMPOSITION (100%) REDO COMPOSITION (0% until redone)

 Includes at least three different tracks
 Is a variation on Hot Cross Buns
 Instrument sounds are possible for the
range of each instrument.
 Is about 30 seconds long
 Includes less than three tracks
 Is not a variation on Hot Cross Buns
 Instrument sounds are not possible for
the range of each instrument.
 Is shorter than 20 seconds or longer
than 40 seconds
Evaluate your creation: Use at least two vocabulary terms from the word wall to describe why
your variation is a high quality composition.

My variation is a high quality composition because…

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