The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Composition: Methods for Developing Simple Melodies and Longer Compositions by michael miller

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July 15,2025

**How to Compose**

Composing is an art that requires careful thought and planning.

First, you need to have a clear idea or topic in mind. This will serve as the foundation for your composition.

Next, it is important to gather relevant information and ideas. You can do this through research, personal experience, or by brainstorming with others.

Once you have your ideas, you can start organizing them in a logical manner. This may involve creating an outline or a structure for your composition.

When writing, it is important to use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or overly complicated words that may confuse your readers.

Finally, it is essential to proofread and edit your composition carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, as well as clarity and coherence.

By following these steps, you can improve your composition skills and create high-quality written works.

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Layafette

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

A good book is like a precious treasure that holds the power to transport us to different worlds, expand our knowledge, and touch our hearts.

It has the ability to engage our minds, making us think deeply about various ideas and concepts. Whether it's a thrilling adventure, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking non-fiction piece, a good book has the potential to leave a lasting impact on us.

It can inspire us, motivate us, and even change our perspectives. When we open the pages of a good book, we embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

We lose ourselves in the story, become emotionally invested in the characters, and learn valuable lessons along the way. A good book is not just a source of entertainment; it is a companion that can陪伴 us through different stages of our lives.

It enriches our vocabulary, improves our language skills, and broadens our horizons. So, the next time you pick up a book, make sure it's a good one that will take you on an unforgettable journey.

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Mechanism

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

It’s a rather good compendium that encompasses compositional ideas, approaches, and tools.

I’ll likely keep it on the shelf as an idea book and a source from which to draw pedagogical approaches for my own students.

It definitely presupposes some skill in reading and writing music, though not much more than that.

I think the amount of theory absorbed in piano lessons or other musical studies is probably sufficient, and one could look up additional information as needed.

However, there was a significant mistake on page 151 where the wrong definition for retrograde inversion was given. So, be aware of that if you reach that point.

This was the only glaring error that I happened to notice, but there were several sections that I didn’t read in detail.

For example, I’m not going to improve my counterpoint with the presentation in this book, that’s for sure.

The section on orchestration is basically a cheat sheet on the orchestral instruments.

I’ll still refer to my copy of Adler when I need to look something up, but if this is the only resource you have, you could do worse.

The presentation of 20th-century trends outside of tonal music is very limited, and the same goes for songwriting if that’s your area of interest.

Every chapter has numerous assignments and examples.

On the whole, it seems like a fairly good book to begin with, but it doesn’t offer much that is especially useful for those who have been writing music for some time.

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DoctusRex

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July 15,2025

This was a truly great basic introduction to the techniques of music composition. It not only provided valuable insights into the various methods and approaches used in creating music but also served as a good review of some fundamental music theory that I had once known.

The explanations were clear and concise, making it easy for beginners to understand. However, I do wish there had been more in-depth coverage on how to develop a short melody into a full-length piece. This is a crucial aspect of music composition that requires a great deal of skill and creativity.

It would have been beneficial to have more examples and practical exercises to help readers master this important technique. Overall, though, this was a very useful and informative article that has inspired me to further explore the world of music composition.

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MrOri

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This book is truly phenomenal for any hobbyist eager to embark on the journey of composing music.

It begins by covering the fundamental theory such as scales, tones, and chord progressions, but does so in a way that doesn't stray too far from the practical aspect of actually making music.

What makes it even more remarkable is when it delves deeper into the topics of melodic development and coordinating different voices.

It touches upon the grammar and logic of composition, gradually revealing the mysteries that lie behind one of the oldest art forms.

This is one of those rare books that has the power to draw an outsider into a world that initially appeared dense and esoteric.

It serves as a guiding light, leading hobbyists step by step towards a better understanding and appreciation of the art of music composition.

Whether you're a beginner with a passion for music or someone looking to expand their knowledge in this field, this book is an absolute must-read.

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Inugirlz

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Even though I find the name off-putting (as I don't see that music theory has to be difficult to teach or understand),

I really liked the casual way of explaining all the relevant concepts in music composition.

He goes over all the fundamentals of the way music is put together. This includes aspects such as melody, rhythm, harmony, and more.

He also mentions all the possible rules you can use if you want to make it easier for yourself in the beginning.

For example, there are rules about chord progressions and note combinations that can help you create a more harmonious and pleasing sound.

Of course, he's careful to mention that once you know all the rules of harmony, you can discard them at your leisure.

This is because there is no right way to compose music.

Anything that sounds good to your ear is a worthy piece of music.

It's all about creativity and personal expression.

So, while it's important to learn the basics, don't be afraid to break the rules and explore new sounds and ideas.

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BRI_7424

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July 15,2025

An excellent tutorial/reference on composing melodies to fit chords is an essential resource for both composers and performers. It provides valuable insights into the art of creating harmonious combinations of notes and chords. By understanding how to add chords to melodies, one can enhance the musicality and depth of the composition. Moreover, this tutorial/reference also helps in understanding the different chords available, their characteristics, and how they can be used effectively in various musical contexts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, this tutorial/reference can serve as a valuable guide in your musical journey. It offers practical tips, examples, and exercises to help you master the skills of melody and chord composition. With its clear and concise explanations, you can easily learn and apply the concepts to your own musical creations.

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JBeno16

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July 15,2025

Tools for music composition play a crucial role in the creative process.

They come in various forms, each with its own unique features and functions.

Some common tools include music notation software, which allows composers to write down their musical ideas in a standard notation.

This software often comes with a wide range of features such as the ability to add dynamics, articulations, and other musical markings.

Another important tool is a digital audio workstation (DAW), which is used for recording, editing, and mixing music.

DAWs offer a variety of features such as multiple tracks, effects processing, and automation.

For those who prefer to compose using traditional instruments, a MIDI keyboard or other MIDI-enabled device can be used to input musical notes into a computer.

MIDI keyboards allow composers to play their ideas in real-time and record them directly into a music composition software.

In conclusion, having the right tools for music composition can make the creative process更加流畅 and enjoyable.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced composer, it is important to choose the tools that best suit your needs and preferences.

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The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Composition: Methods for Developing Simple Melodies and Longer Compositions

michael miller

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