MUSIC THEORY

Mod 34

• Subject of the Day: Writing Four Parts to a Given Progression
• Reading Assignment: None
• Written Assignment: Workbook; p. 50
• Semester Schedule

I.     Write the progression beneath a grand staff

II.    Determine the key signature.  Write it in both clefs

III.   Write a bass line following rules for good melody

IV.   Add soprano, alto and tenor

        A.    Use the rules for proper chord connection

        B.    When possible, use contrary motion between soprano and bass

        C.    Write good melodies in all 3 voices

        D.    Leading tone in soprano must go up; esp. at cadence

        E.     Plan ahead before choosing the position for your voices

        F.     Sometimes it is wise to write the cadence first

        G.     Be sure that each chord has 2 roots, 1 3rd, and 1 5th

        H.     Check for leading tone accidentals in minor keys
 

If you still have questions, contact Dr. Bartolotta at wbartolo@odu.edu