Craig Middleton Btec Music - Online Portfolio

Compositional Exercises

These composition exercises were written so I could practise writing in different forms. For 3 of these pieces the different parts of the pieces are essentially the same, except for the way they are put together. These three forms are Ternary form (ABA), Arch form (ABCBA) and Symmetrical Rondo Form (ABACABA). Each of these pieces uses the same sections, for example section A in each piece is the same, as is section B and C. The only difference is the form these pieces are written in, which changes the feel of the piece.

The fourth exercise uses a variational Strophic form, which is the same section, repeated, but changes each time it is repeated. For this is had a repeating drone line on the top which never changes, and then added or removed other lines underneath it. Despite the different changes in style the drone stay constant. It was interesting to write in this form as it restricted me in several ways. If I was using a constant drone then the key and chord progressions would have to be the same, as well as the time between sections. However I think it works quite well, giving the piece a driving feel.

Arch Form :

Ternary Form:

Rondo Form:

Variational Strophic Form: