Elementary Composition

Welcome to the course material on Elementary Composition in Music. This course will delve into the fundamentals of harmony, providing a solid foundation for understanding musical structure and composition. As we explore elementary harmony, we will focus on various key concepts and techniques that form the building blocks of musical composition.

One of the primary objectives of this course is to enable candidates to identify suitable melodies that align with given words, creating harmonious and well-balanced musical phrases. This skill is essential for composers as it ensures that the music complements the lyrics or text effectively, enhancing the overall expressive quality of the composition.

Throughout the course, we will cover topics such as primary and secondary triads in major keys, basic chord progressions in four parts vocal style (SATB) within specific key signatures, and the dominant 7th chord in root position. Understanding these concepts is crucial for creating harmonic progressions that are musically satisfying and structurally sound.

Furthermore, we will explore different types of cadences, including perfect/full close cadences, imperfect/half close cadences, plagal/amen cadences, and interrupted/deceptive cadences. Recognizing and utilizing these cadences effectively can add tension, resolution, and emotional depth to compositions, enriching the overall listening experience.

As we delve into the realm of elementary harmony, we will also examine various techniques such as parallel, similar, contrary, and oblique motion, as well as neighboring tones, passing tones, and auxiliary notes. These devices play a crucial role in creating smooth and engaging melodic lines, enhancing the overall coherence and fluency of musical compositions.

Additionally, simple diatonic modulations will be explored, allowing composers to transition between closely related keys seamlessly. Mastering the art of modulation adds dynamism and interest to compositions, creating musical journeys that captivate listeners and evoke a range of emotions.

Lastly, the course will cover the practical application of setting words to written melodies and recognizing suitable answers to given musical phrases. These skills are essential for composers looking to craft engaging and cohesive musical pieces that resonate with audiences on both an intellectual and emotional level.

Elementary composition in music refers to the foundational techniques and skills required to create simple yet effective musical pieces. This includes understanding melody, harmony, chord progressions, and other key concepts that are essential for beginner composers. The aim is to provide high school students with the tools they need to craft original musical works and develop their compositional abilities.