Sequenced Performance: "The Moldeau"
A complete, challenging step-by-step sequenced performance of Smetana’s The Moldau (Vltava) for GCSE Music students using Logic Pro. Students build a full orchestral arrangement of the opening (bars 1–101, about 2 minutes 50 seconds) by copying clear piano-roll screenshots onto their own piano roll, one small, achievable step at a time.
The booklet is written for complete beginners but aims high. Students set up a full orchestral project and sequence every part, from the two flute “springs” at the start, through the famous River Theme, to the Forest Hunt horn calls and a grand finale. Along the way, they’re given real chances to show expression and technical control, the qualities that separate a good sequenced performance from an excellent one.
What’s inside the booklet (62 A4 pages, editable PowerPoint):
Meet Logic Pro: annotated, cropped screenshots showing exactly where every button and menu students need can be found.
Getting set up: a clear walkthrough covering tempo, key, importing the orchestral instruments and naming tracks, ending with a setup checkpoint.
The Routine: a four-part method students repeat for every part (make a MIDI region, draw the notes, set the velocity, then check and save), so they quickly become independent.
Five sections, numbered step by step: The First Spring, The Second Spring, The River Theme, The River Broadens and The Forest Hunt. Every step has a piano-roll image to copy.
The Big Moments (bars 42 and 50): shows students how to shape a slow build to full volume and drop back to quiet, using velocity and automation.
The Grand Finale: a newly written G7–C cadence that gives the excerpt a solid, satisfying ending rather than an abrupt cut-off.
Expression & the Mix: dynamics, balance and final polish.
Checkpoints and listening checks: placed at the end of each section, so the teacher can check progress at sensible points.
Progress bar, final checklist and a “Going for Grade 9” page: extension guidance for the most able students.
Also included:
Finished example MIDI file: the completed arrangement, so students can hear what they’re aiming for and teachers can check work quickly.
Examiner follow-along score (PDF and MusicXML): a clearly labelled score with every instrument named.
Live piano part (score PDF, MusicXML, and a backing-track MIDI): a playable piano reduction for students who want to combine a live element with their sequenced backing.
Instruments covered: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horns, trumpets, trombones, tuba, timpani, triangle, harp, and full strings (arco and pizzicato).
Everything is fully editable. Change the wording, reorder steps, add your own screenshots or adapt it for your class however you like.
Questions or problems? Contact solutionsformusic@outlook.com.
