Safety Net

This simple theme and variations teaches students how to create and improvise melodies based on the given harmony. The theme presents a very simple chord progression, which is then repeated for the entire piece. This harmonic "safety net" allows students to focus on the right-hand and also suggests notes for the improvisations.

Variations 1 and 3 show students how to create melodies using chord tones. Variations 2 and 4 show students how to create melodies using chord tones and non-chord tones. Variation 5 provides students with an opportunity to improvise a melody using chord tones. Variations 6 provides students with an opportunity to improvise a melody using chord tones and non-chord tones.

This free download is licensed for single or studio use. Teachers are authorized to make copies for their students. You can listen to it by clicking on the audio thumbnail above.

Late Elementary Level (or higher)