Augmented 6th
This week we add another spice to our grab bad of composition ideas – the augmented-sixth chord. Augmented-sixth chords are predominant function chords that feature chromatic alterations – the name
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Composition Workshop
This week, instead of our usual class time, we had a composition workshop with Professor Christian Justilien. Mr. Justilien is an Associate professor at University of The Bahamas with a
Neapolitan Chords
Composers have devised many devices that cause a response from the listener. In Major modes, borrowed chords allow composers to accentuate certain lyrics or phrases; Neapolitan chords play a similar
Musical Symbol Cheat Sheet
Here are some of the symbols I always have to look for. Simply copy and paste – For chord symbols, you can make the elements superscript. Enjoy. ♭ 𝄫 ♮
Modal Mixture
Fruit punch. It tastes good, doesn’t it? How about when you get some mango or passion fruit juice? Now those taste really good don’t they?! Now imagine you’re just expecting
Variations
Variation noun The repetition of a musical theme with modifications in such elements as rhythm, melody, harmony, key, tempo, and accompaniment. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/variation Music is like a story. You could always
Inventions and Fugues
Inventions and Fugues Inventions and fugues share many features, but the differences are very easy to recognize once you know what you are looking for. To begin with, they are
Binary and Ternary Form
Forms There are many types of musical forms used to describe the overall harmonic and thematic organization of compositions. Two of the simplest forms are binary form and tertiary form.
Modulation and Closely Related Keys
Modulation gives the composer the means to smoothly – or abruptly – transition to a new key and change the feel of a piece and provides variety in larger forms
Secondary Leading-tone Chords
“Who” is but the form following the function of “What”; and what I am is a man in a mask…I’m merely remarking upon the paradox of asking a masked man