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(IB-) Music / Composition & Orchestration (Arrangement)
A Course - (Almost) Starting From Scratch
by Rolf Becker
2.) Practical Exercise:
Starting with a Chord Progression
Let’s dive into the practical side of composition by focusing on chord progressions as a starting point.
Task:
a) Compose a 4-measure (bar) melody using the following chord sequence:
I - IV - V7 - I
( Example in C Major: C - F - G7 - C)
b) Repeat your 4-measure melody but alter the ending by using a
slightly different chord sequence:
I - IIm7 - V7 - I
( Example in C Major: C - Dm7 - G7 - C)
3.) The Creative Process
1. Listen and Experiment:
Play the provided audio file of the chord progression repeatedly. Let the harmony guide your creativity.
2. Find Your Melody:
Sing, hum, or play along with your instrument to discover a 4-measure melody that resonates with you. Find your melody, based on the Scales, Chord triads or enhance YOUR melody by incorporating passing notes, but use them wisely to ensure they complement rather than disrupt the underlying chord structure.
3. Record Your Idea:
Use your smartphone or a music program to capture YOUR melody.
If you’re away from your usual setup, a quick recording will suffice.
Later, you can transcribe it onto the provided sheet music using either
4/4 or 3/4 time signature sheets (s. next page).