Developing an ensemble composition
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can develop my string quartet composition by developing the texture and using a countermelody.
Key learning points
- Adding countermelodies and developing texture are effective ways to develop an ensemble composition.
- A countermelody is a second and equally prominent melody that plays at the same time as the main melody.
- In a string quartet, the second violin or viola normally play countermelodies, although sometimes the cello does.
- When adding countermelodies or developing texture it is crucial to make sure that every part can still be heard well.
- The chord tones of each chord should still be played across all parts to ensure the harmony is still effective.
Keywords
String quartet - a common western classical ensemble consisting of two violins, a viola and a cello
Countermelody - a second melody that plays at the same time as the main melody
Texture - how many layers of music are playing and how they fit together
Melody and accompaniment - a texture in which there is a clear melody and separate accompanying lines
Common misconception
A countermelody is just a type of accompaniment.
It is actually quite different from an accompaniment, because it should be equally as prominent as the main melody, whereas an accompaniment is not. An accompaniment is usually also based on repeating patterns, whereas a melody does not have to be.
Teacher tip
For more experienced composers, it may be appropriate to explore a cello countermelody. With this, the key is to make sure that the countermelody is based around the chord tones that it was originally playing and that the harmony parts (2nd violin and viola) still fill in the missing chord tones).
Equipment
DAW or notation software, keyboard or other suitable instrument as a composition tool.
Licence
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