Compositional Devices Flashcards

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1
Q

Imitation

A
  • One part in the music imitates a melody or rhythm in another part
  • Usually happens within the next two bars
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2
Q

Fragmentation

A
  • A fragment (small part) of the melody is used

- Helps extend the music

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3
Q

Augmentation

A
  • The melody or rhythm is repeated with larger note values

- Sounds similar but s l o w e r

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4
Q

Diminution

A
  • The melody or rhythm is repeated with smaller note values

- Sounds similar but faster

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5
Q

Ostinato

A
  • Repeated rhythmic idea or motif, usually underneath the music
  • May be played by a percussion instrument or by a melody instrument
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6
Q

Riff

A

Guitar or keyboard plays a catchy short melody that is repeated often during a song

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7
Q

Sequence

A
  • A type of repetition in a melody
  • Ascending sequence - a short part of a melody that is repeated but all the notes are higher each repetition
  • Descending sequence - same as above but repeated as lower
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8
Q

Melody Extension

A
  • A melody begins as before, but this time is extended - for example: 2 bars now becomes 3
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9
Q

Repetition

A

A melody or rhythm can be repeated:

  • Exactly
  • Or with some changes
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10
Q

Pedal Point

A

(Pedal, Pedal Tone)
- A note in the bass that lasts for several bars
OR
- The same note repeated for several bars
- Above that note the music moves - a melody and/or a harmony

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