1. Determine the key
a. Look
for the leading tone in minor
b. Look
for triad outlines
1) Tonic, subdominant, and dominant chords
c. Look
for frequency of tonic and dominant pitches
d. Check
the sound of the phrase
2. Write a progression that works with the soprano
line
a. Follow
the Chord Classification System
b. Some
soprano notes may be interpreted as non-chord tones
3. Create a bass line from your progression
a. Make
this a good melody, using inversions and non-chord tones
b. Look
for opportunities for contrary motion to the soprano
4. Fill in the alto and tenor parts making good melodies and using non-chord tones
If you still have questions, contact Dr. Bartolotta at wbartolo@odu.edu.