Composing and Sound Stories
To create music that tells stories or represents ideas.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Expressive Arts & Design
- Learning area: Expressive Arts and Design
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Selects instruments for sound effects
- Plays sounds at appropriate moments
- Creates simple compositions
- Explains musical choices
Materials
- Variety of instruments (tuned and untuned)
- Stories suitable for sound accompaniment
- Recording equipment
- Simple notation materials
Instructions
Start with a familiar story. 'We're going to make music to go with We're Going on a Bear Hunt. What sound could we use for splashing through the river?'
Explore sound effects together. 'Let's try different instruments for the river sound. Shakers... that could be rain. What about these chime bars? That sounds like water drops!' Let children decide.
Create a score or plan together. 'When we get to the river part, what instruments will play? The rain sticks and chime bars! Let's write that down so we remember.'
Perform the sound story as a group. 'Ready? I'll read the story and when we get to each part, play your sounds!' Record the performance.
Move to original compositions. 'Let's make music about the weather. What sounds could show rain? Wind? Thunder?' Create music without a story framework.
Celebrate compositions. 'You composed music about the storm! Listen—that's your composition!' Play back recordings and discuss what worked well.