Unit Plan 32 (Grade 8 Orchestra): Expressive Performance

Focus: Perform orchestra music with refined intonation, balanced/blended sound, unified bowing, and clear expressive intent in a full ensemble setting.

Grade Level: 8

Subject Area: Orchestra (Performance • Expression • Ensemble Skills)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 50–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

In this unit, Grade 8 orchestra students focus on delivering expressive, polished performances that showcase everything they have built technically and musically. They refine intonation, bow unity, balance/blend, and dynamic shaping while connecting musical decisions to expressive goals (mood, character, narrative). Through focused rehearsal segments, listening and adjusting in real time, and short recording reviews, students learn how their individual sound fits into the ensemble’s overall color and shape. The unit culminates in an Expressive Performance Run with reflection on how well their playing communicates musical intent to an audience.

Essential Questions

• What does it mean to give a truly expressive performance in orchestra, not just play the right notes and rhythms?
• How do intonation, bow unity, and balance/blend contribute to a more emotional and convincing performance?
• In what ways do dynamics, phrasing, tone color, and tempo choices help communicate character and meaning?
• How can we listen and adjust in real time to support a unified ensemble sound?
• How does preparing for an expressive performance help us grow as musicians, teammates, and performers?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Perform selected repertoire with consistent intonation and refined tone across all sections.
2. Demonstrate unified bowing (consistent articulations, bow direction, and style) within and across sections.
3. Balance and blend melody, harmony, and accompaniment parts so important lines are clearly heard.
4. Shape dynamics, phrasing, and tone color to communicate an expressive goal (e.g., calm, intense, playful, solemn).
5. Reflect on their performance using specific musical vocabulary, identifying strengths and next steps for expressive growth.

Standards Alignment — Grade 8 Orchestra (custom, NAfME-style)

• OR:Pr6.8a — Perform orchestra music with accurate pitch and rhythm, refined tone, unified bowing, balance/blend, and expressive intent in an ensemble setting.
  • Example: Students perform a three-part arrangement with strong dynamic contrast and consistent intonation.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can keep my intonation steady and my tone refined throughout our performance.
• I can match bowings and articulations with my section so we sound unified.
• I can listen across the group and adjust my volume and color to blend or bring out the melody.
• I can use dynamics, phrasing, and tone color to show the character or mood of the piece.
• I can describe what went well and what could improve in our performance using music vocabulary (intonation, blend, phrasing, etc.).