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SingaporeMusic

Composing

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do you add simple chords to a melody so the harmony fits and the phrase ends well?

Harmonise a simple melody using the primary chords (I, IV, V), match chords to the melody notes, change chords at a sensible rate, and place a cadence at the phrase end
A clear, step-by-step answer to the N(A)-Level Music composing outcome on harmonising a tune. Using the primary chords I, IV and V, matching a chord to each melody note, choosing a sensible harmonic rhythm, and placing a perfect cadence at the end.
9 min answer →

How do you create an interesting rhythm and a simple accompaniment to support a melody?

Create rhythmic patterns and a simple accompaniment for a melody, using broken chords, riffs or a bass line, and keeping the accompaniment supportive rather than competing
A clear, step-by-step answer to the N(A)-Level Music composing outcome on accompaniment. Creating rhythmic patterns and ostinatos, building a simple accompaniment from broken chords, a bass line or a riff, and keeping it supportive of the melody.
9 min answer →

How do you plan a short complete piece with a clear structure, a brief, and a beginning, middle and end?

Plan a short composition from a brief, choosing a structure (such as ABA or verse-chorus), developing a main idea, creating contrast, and shaping a clear beginning, middle and end
A clear, step-by-step answer to the N(A)-Level Music composing outcome on structuring a piece. Reading a brief, choosing a simple structure such as ABA or verse-chorus, developing one main idea, adding contrast, and giving the piece a clear beginning, middle and end.
9 min answer →

How do you write a simple, singable melody with a clear shape and balanced phrases?

Write a simple melody in a chosen key with a clear shape, balanced question-and-answer phrases, mostly stepwise movement, and a satisfying ending on the tonic
A clear, step-by-step answer to the N(A)-Level Music composing outcome on melody. Choosing a key and range, building balanced question-and-answer phrases, mixing steps and leaps, using repetition, and ending on the tonic.
9 min answer →