Compositional Devices Flashcards
Sequence
Repetition of a musical phrase at a higher or lower pitch
Repetition
Where a phrase is repeated exactly
Variation
Where a phrase is repeated with a slight change
Motif
A short theme
Ornaments
Like trills - rapid playing of two or more notes
Tremolo
Rapid alternation of two or more notes
Articulation
Slurs or staccato for example
Scale passages
Scale passages
Pedal Points
A long held note or the same note repeated several times
Contrary Motion
One part rises in pitch while the other descends
Inversion
Where a part is inverted. Intervals still stay the same.
Syncopation
Off beat rhythms
Imitative Entries
Parts (vocal/instrumental) start at different times. Rhythm would be the same for each part, but the pitch notes could be different.
Melody Extension
A melody is composed and then repeated but with an extension to the melody.
Fragmentation
A small part of the melody/rhythm is reused. This can also help extend a melody.
Riff
A short repeated motif or tune. Usually played on guitar, bass, or keyboard.
Ostinato
A repeated rhythmic idea or motif. Usually played by percussion under the melody.
Augmentation
A melody is repeated but with the note valued doubled (or more). This gives the effect of the melody being slower.
Diminution
A melody is repeated but with the note values halved (or more). This gives the effect of the melody being faster.
Imitation
One part in the melody imitates or repeats a previously heard part.
