What is a pedal point? A pedal point (or pedal tone) refers to a single note repeated or sustained (usually in the bass) while harmony changes above it. In certain styles, the continuous use of pedal points can result in an unwanted drone-like quality. It is worth noting that the term “pedal” originated from organ … Read more
What is “Ostinato?” An Ostinato is a musical phrase repeated in succession in a composition. Ostinatos usually display melodic and rhythmic qualities. They appear in a variety of musical genres, usually as a leading or supporting device. When writing music for media, an ostinato can be a valuable tool for creating a piece with a … Read more
This article was written by Robin Hall, the co-author of the Behind the Score series. Recently, he sent an email to his friend who was seeking advice on how to enter the music industry. In the email, Robin candidly shares his firsthand experiences as a full-time composer, reflecting on both the difficulties he encountered and … Read more
Using Chord Arpeggios for a Melodic Idea Many composers create melodies using arpeggios. Some famous examples of arpeggio-driven melodies include the cello in Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony No. 3 (Movement 1), the brass in “The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme)” by John Williams, and sax in “Giant Steps” by John Coltrane. In more recent TV and … Read more
(Click here to view the part 1 of the series) Ostinato – Adding Instruments Ex. 1-1-C In Ex.1-1-C, we continue doubling to fortify the sound of our piece. Piano and viola double the cello ostinato, with the viola playing an octave higher. The sharp attack of the piano adds more bite to the staccato strings. Low … Read more
Characteristic Note of a Mode The characteristic note of a mode is a defining note that helps us distinguish one mode fromanother. Due to the ubiquitous use of major and minor keys in Western music, Western listeners are somewhat conditioned to the sounds of major and minor scales. Therefore, when we hear a mode, we … Read more
When it comes to harmonizing your music, exploring captivating techniques can elevate your compositions to new heights. One such technique is the use of cluster voicings. These voicings can be employed effectively throughout an entire passage, especially in action-driven scores where they have a significant impact. Cluster voicings offer a rich and dense harmonic texture, … Read more
Minor Major 7th Chord Ah, the Minor Major 7th chord. Although it has an unusual name, the Minor Major 7th chord is simply a minor chord with the 7th note raised a half-step. To clarify, the 7th is raised from how it appears in the natural minor scale to how it would appear in the … Read more
As the name might imply, hybrid chords contain two elements: a chord root, and additional tones/tensions (except the 3rd) that spell out another chord.
