Music Theory: Octatonic Scales

This class will introduce the concept of octatonic scales - scales which came into use in the 20th century using alternating whole and half steps (alternating tones and semitones).

Following an introductory segment focusing on how to construct an octatonic scale and demonstrating its sound, learners will be invited to play the octatonic scale on their instrument (learners may bring ANY musical instrument to this session, provided that they know how to play a given pitch on the instrument!)

We will then work through some notating examples, creating octatonic scales starting on different notes. This will be done firstly by having a go independently, then by working through examples as a group to check answers. 

If time allows, we will investigate some excerpts using octatonicism, from composers such as Bartok.

Following this, learners will be encouraged to compose a short melody using an octatonic scale.

Teaching will largely take place via the whiteboard and shared screen within zoom, and with instrument demonstration on video/audio.

Prior knowledge: Learners will need to be familiar with notes in at least one clef (treble, alto or bass) and understand how to count in half-steps/semitones (e.g. G - G# - A - A# - B - C # C# etc). 
If bringing along an instrument, learners will need to know how to produce each note - I can advise on this for string instruments and piano, but I won't necessarily know all finger patterns for other instruments!