MUS150 Week 2, Music Composition: Creating Original Melodies…

1. Understanding Melodies

Melody is sweet-sounding music that captivates the ear and conveys emotion.

An original melody is one that is created by:

Beginning with a motif: a very short musical idea (24 notes) which can be readily repeated or modified.

Choosing the scale/key: The scale of a major or minor or the use of modal scales will have an effect on the mood.

Taking into account rhythm and phrasing: Using a combination of long and short notes in the desired flow and creating groups of notes that resemble phrases.

Trying out intervals: Small jumps create smooth melodies, while larger jumps create excitement.

2. Harmony and Chord Progressions

Harmony is the supportive element of the melody while giving the music more body.

Chord selection: It is advisable to pick the chords from the same key unless borrowing for tension purposes.

Common chord progressions are IIVVI (classical), iiVI (jazz), viIVIV (pop).

When composing the melody, try to play it along with the chord tones at the strong beats for it to sound in harmony with them.

3. Arrangements

The arrangement is the allocation of the melody and harmony to different instruments or to different sections.

Voici les tapes pour arranger :

The main instrument (voice, piano, violin, etc.) is to be given the melody.

Accompaniment is to be added, that is, chords, bass lines, or rhythmic patterns.

Texture is to be considered: thin (solo), medium (trio or quartet), thick (full ensemble).

Dynamic variation is to be added: louder/softer sections to create contrast.

Transitions between sections are to be included for smooth flow.

4. Composition Workflow

Begin with motif melody chords arrangement final polish.

The creative process consits of revising and experimenting; it is surprising how a minor change in rhythm, interval, or instrumentation can greatly enhance the piece.

5. Examples

Motif: CEG (three notes) develop by repeating, inverting, or changing rhythm.

Arrangement: melody on piano, chords in strings, bass on lower register, percussion for rhythm.

6. References

Do not forget to cite general textbooks, theory guides, or online music resources whenever applicable

Requirements:

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