Q3b | Composing a Solo Melody
Question 3b in the ABRSM Grade 7 Music Theory Exam paper is a solo melody composition, with a given opening. In this lesson: Q3b Marking Criteria To gain top marks …
Q3a | Composing a Solo Part
In this lesson: Q3a Marking Criteria In question 3a, you are assessed on not only how appropriate and musical your melody is, but also how that melody fits harmonically with …
Keyboard Voice Leading
We have already learned that the normal voice leading behaviour of the leading note is to rise by step, if the chord progression is V-I, and that in a 4-part …
The Whole Tone Scale
The Whole Tone Scale The whole-tone scale is a six-note scale, where each note is a tone (whole step) higher/lower than the next. There are two varieties: Since the interval …
Identifying the Era
Identifying the Era of a Score In your music theory exam you may be asked to identify the era or possible composer of a score you have not seen before. …
The Baroque Era
The Baroque Era The Baroque era in music was (roughly) between the years 1600 to 1750. Some of the most famous composers of this era are: J.S. Bach, Henry Purcell …
Instrument Ranges
Instrument Ranges for Composers You need to learn the lowest playable note on each orchestral instrument, so that you are able to write a composition which stays in range. (In …
Motifs, Sequences and Imitation
Motifs A motif is an easy to recognise, short musical idea, which is used to generate new music in a composition. Using the similar motifs throughout a composition helps to …
SATB Doubling, Omissions & Spacing
Doubling When a three-note chord is used in four-part harmony, one of the triad notes must be used twice. This is called “doubling” a note. The doubled note can …
Leading Notes and 7ths
Voice Leading Leading Notes The behaviour of the leading note is crucial to writing good harmony, and good compositions. The 7th degree of the scale is called the “leading note” …