Sharp Shooter

SHARP SHOOTER

GENERAL POINTS

·  Introduce the note F#

·  The syncopated rhythm in bar 4 is a feature of the piece and played by all the ensemble so it is helpful to emphasise this rhythm by doubling it on the bass drum of the kit at the appropriate places.

·  The quaver rhythm can be practised with the drum kit – the hi hat supplying the quaver rhythm

·  The tuned percussion are playing a duet so practise these together concentrating on correct use of left and right hammers in the minims. Hard hammers should be used if possible from bar 9 where the tune is in the tuned percussion part

·  Record and appraise

WHAT THEY NEED TO KNOW

BASS

The notes C,D, G and F#. D can be played in position on the fifth fret of the A string or as an op-en string. The rhythms and movement are relatively easy so pupils should concentrate on producing a good clean sustained sound.

TUNED PERCUSSION

Parts I and 2 are in duet with each other in the outer sections and in unison in the middle section. Change the timbre by using different hammers. Taking off the bars either side of those that are needed can be helpful at this stage.

KEYBOARD

The fingering on the music should help pupils learn the technique of turning the finger over. All the other notes lay under the five fingers, so good fingering should be encouraged. The dotted minim in the section from bar 9 needs explanation. The repeated notes in the last line reiterate the turning technique and need a staccato touch. Choose a voice that sustains the longer notes in the middle section.

MELODY

Any instrument can play this basic level part. If played on the keyboard the turning technique is the same, but the part uses fewer notes.

PIANO

The teacher or a competent pianist can play this part, which will act as a good support for the ensemble.