Cyberspace Detective by Anand: Lesson Ideas

4. Week 5 & 6 - fun with chromatic scales

The chromatic scale is first introduced in Grade 2 scales however, this Grade 1 piece uses elements of it. It’s super useful for a pupil to be able to play a chromatic scale well as at this level. 

• Work with your pupil on the chromatic quiz activities.
• Encourage your pupil to improvise a melody that illustrates the title of the piece ‘Cyberspace Detective’. How will this affect the way they play? 

The D contrary motion chromatic scale

An easy chromatic scale to start with is from D in contrary motion. The fingering is identical in both hands. It’s a good workout to strengthen the technique required (neat fingers over and under) and the finger patterns of 3rd on black notes and 1 2 3 patterns on two white notes followed by a black note. Accompany your pupil whilst they improvise using the chromatic scale. Be ready to to be very flexible with the accompaniment, changing it to fit with what your pupil is playing. Try simply playing D F# A and D, G, A triads.

Download a chromatic scale activity worksheet for your pupil on the next page.