Music Composition

V. Materials for Early Composition Lessons

• A. Melodic Writing

• Melodic Characteristics

• Tonality and Harmonic Implication in the Melodic Line:

B. Melodic Form

1. Melodic Units

2. Phrase relationship

3. Phrases in Combinations:

C. Harmonic Writing

• Four-part writing is the standard training of harmony.

• 20th century harmony is based on different types of scales (besides major and minor), different harmonic progression (other than cycle of 5ths) and different harmonic systems (other than tertian).

D. Form and Style

• Practice with different standard formal structures and styles, as well as explore new forms and styles.

E. Instrumental Writing

1. A variety of textures and patterns of piano writing is needed.

2. You should have a general of knowledge of the range and timbral characteristics of each instrument for which you choose to write. If collaborating with someone, it’s a good idea to work closely with them.

Writing for Piano Trio(violin, cello and piano)

• Possible combinations of instrumentation within a piano trio:

1. Piano solo

2. Violin solo

3. Cello solo

4. Violin and piano duet

5. Cello and piano duet

6. Violin and cello duet

7. Violin, cello and piano trio

• Any of the three instruments can play the roles of foreground (melody) as well as background (harmonic and rhythmic support). Sometimes, middle ground (countermelody) occurs as well. An interesting sounding trio should involve constant changing of roles and relationships among the instruments.

F. Vocal Writing

1. The same principle of instrumental writing applies to vocal writing.

2. Composer must pay attention to text setting: basically, setting the melody according to the pitch inflection and rhythmic characteristic of the text.

3. There is a limit to the level of complexity in vocal writing which is possible in instrumental writing.

http://www.8notes.com/theory