Cell construction

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Cell construction

Don't be frightened of repetition. Without it, nobody will be likely to remember anything you compose. A good way of getting started on developing and constructing melodies is to write a short motif or phrase, repeat it several times and introduce variations in pitch. Here is a melody constructed this way (Figures 6.1 and 6.2):

Figure 6.1. Motif cells

Figure 6.2. Motif cells, staff

NOTE

If you are stuck for an idea, try constructing a small rhythmic framework and experiment with various pitch combinations.

After creating a short motif, I duplicated it five times and varied the pitches of the notes each time, to form a continuous flowing melody. I used several tracks, for clarity, but of course, it could all be done on a single track!

• Load cells/cells and examine the sequences one by one.

• Cell 1: The so-called inspirational beginning. Although it ends on the tonic (we are in the key of F), it has an air of expectancy about it that suggests continuation.

• Cell 2: By raising the pitch of all but the first note I was able to create a new phrase. The air of expectancy continues. We are climbing.

• Cell 3: Another copy is added. The pitches are raised and the climbing continues.

• Cell 4: and continues

• Cell 5: We begin a descent.

• Cell 6: This time the motif is extended to complete a musical sentence .

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