This week, Year 5 began their new music unit, diving straight into the origins and unique sounds of The Blues.

Students discovered the powerful historical and emotional context of this genre, learning how The Blues developed in the Deep South of America and how it was used to express feelings of sadness, hardship, and hope. We focused on listening skills, identifying the genre's key features, such as the frequent use of the call and response structure and the distinctive twelve-bar chord progression.

The children enthusiastically explored the concept of the blue note (a slightly flattened note that gives the music its emotional depth) and began to understand how simple musical elements can communicate deep feelings. This engaging introduction sets the stage for future lessons, where Year 5 will develop their understanding of chord structures and even begin composing their own blues pieces.