Common Composition Techniques

Seminar List • Abstract • Preparation • Main Text

Keeping it simple

Simple is not the same as being familiar with a particular style. Many composers assume that because they are familiar with another composer's style that the music is straightforward. The reverse is usually the case.

Also see here (composing standards)...

Specific techniques

• Contrast:
  • High/Low/Middle
  • Polyphonic/Monophonic
  • Dissonant/Consonant (although be aware of stylistic ramifications here)
  • Slow/Fast
  • Loud/Soft
  • etc., etc.
• Voice leading
• Parallel motion
• Contrary motion
• Local tonality
• bi-(multi-) tonality (layering)
• Imagining durations, then translating them into real-time - you need 20 seconds of a texture - how many bars/beats does this actually mean.
• If there are certain macro-features you want to include, you can draw these.
• Use more graphic notation at first and then make this more and more precise. You can 'draw' graphics a lot more quickly as an aide memoire without dealing with detail.
• Imagine a main point or climax to which you will lead or which you'll lead away from.
• Don't necessarily compose from start to finish.
• Improvise
• Use books, films, images, anything for inspiration. Make a note of any ideas, titles, etc.
• Don't flog a dead horse.
• Stylistics
• Notations

Thinking Big

• Film and image

If you have the chance, look at the film The Green Mile, but note that this is a somewhat disturbing film and contains several scenes that some may find upsetting. While you're watching it, consider, as well as the content of the film, it's structure - how the story is made, and how it works.

Also listen to some music and try to understand the techniques used. Compare classical types with popular or jazz techiques. You don't have to come to any conclusions yet (or ever), just think about it.

Main text (not usually available until after the lecture).

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