Variations on a Melody Part XX

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In this next series of lessons I will demonstrate some of the most common techniques of melody variations. 

Also called exploiting a Motive, Theme, Line, Riff or Cantus firmus.   

Original melody:
Thumbnail image for Example one.png



Same melody - Chords From Lines.

Chords From Melodies.png


Reading from left to right here are the chords that the single melodies create:

A minor ninth - second inversion, E flat dominant seventh add sharp eleventh - 

(flat five substitution), D minor ninth - second inversion no third, 

G sharp sixth, seventh - second inversion, D minor add sharp eleventh - in bass, 

E major six nine, A minor eleventh - no fifth, A dominant seventh sharp fifth - 

second inversion, A dominant seventh - second inversion, D major add eleventh, 

G dominant seventh suspended fourth, G major - first inversion, 

C major seventh. 

Notice how the final chord C major is the relative major to A minor.

 

Now in Roman Numerals:

i/9,  bV7/#11,  iv/9,  #VII/6/7,  iv/#11, V/6/9,  IIIsus9/6,  I7+,  I7,  IV/11,  

VIIsus4,  VII,  Imaj7.

 

Now analyze the chords in relation to the melody. Also how the bass notes create their own melody and simultaneously create a new melodic feeling in relation to the chords. It is essential to not only learn the example but absorb the ideas and create your own examples utilizing these technique.

 

Now transpose above examples to each position (register) of your instrument, then once your comfortable in one key transpose to all 15 keys. Then do same idea using all scales/modes (same) covered so far. Also create three of your own melodies and apply this technique.

As always transpose to all fifteen keys. 

Remember to write out you ideas on the musical staff. 

If you do not read or write music consider getting a book and learning how to.

 

 

All materials for personal use only.

Vince Lauria Sun and Earth Music

Copyright © 2011

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