Composition 5 - Tricks and tips

Introduction

In this composition introduction lesson, we'll investigate just a few common composition tricks.

Diatonic Chords

Creating chord sequences using diatonic chords, chords which stay within any particular key signature.

Altered Diatonic Chords

Raising the minor third, IIM, IIIM, VIM, VIIM.

Question, when raising the third, what key signature  are you moving into?

Lowering the major third, Im, IVm, Vm.

Question, when raising the third, what key signature  are you moving into?

Interval and Lyric selection

Interval and lyric selection is very important for the emotional feel of the melody.

Anchor Notes

Anchor notes are places in a melody which the song seems to come back to often. 

Dropping the base

When you play a chord and then drop the base down to make slash chords. You may drop the base staying withing key or come out of key.