Writing an instrumental melody
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create an instrumental melody for my chorus through improvisation.
Key learning points
- When writing a melody, we need to use a phrase structure that balances repetition and contrast.
- Some of the most popular phrase structures that achieve this balance are AABB, AABA, ABAB and ABAC.
- The A minor scale is a set of notes that uses only the white notes on the piano.
- This is one of the simplest minor keys to compose in.
Keywords
Phrase - A phrase is a short section of a melody, normally lasting for two or four bars.
Phrase structure - The phrase structure is the pattern of phrases in a melody. It should have a balance of repetition and contrast.
A minor scale - The A minor scale is a set of notes starting on A, that uses only the white notes on the keyboard.
Common misconception
Not everyone can write a good melody.
Writing a melody is just like writing a paragraph. Break it into small chunks (phrases). If you are finding it difficult to create a phrase, keep it simple and start by just improvising using 2 or 3 notes.
Teacher tip
This project can be extended significantly, allowing students to complete an entire composition using the steps outlined in Task B. As well as creating the remaining sections, encourage students to explore different timbres, instrumentation and DAW effects.
Equipment
A DAW or other suitable compositional tool or instrument.
Licence
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