The melodic pattern of bar 5 is repeated in bar 6, at a slightly lower pitch. The immediate repetition of a melodic pattern at a lower or higher pitch is called a sequence.

• If the melodic pattern is repeated at a lower pitch, it makes a falling sequence.

• If it is repeated at a higher pitch, it makes it a rising sequence.

Repetition of the pattern need not be absolutely exact (some intervals may be slightly altered), but the general outline of the pattern is kept. Very often, the rhythm is as important as the melody.

The melodic pattern in a sequence may be repeated more than once - the number of repetitions is according to the judgement of the composer. But too many repetitions will cause the music to become predictable.

Sequences can play an important part in music as it gives the listener something to 'latch onto'.

Answer these questions in your Music Book.

1. In which bars is there another example of a sequence?

2. Is it a falling sequence, or a rising sequence?

3. How many bars ling is the melodic pattern which is used?

4. How many repetitions are there of the pattern?

Listen two or three times to the Theme from Brahm's Variations on a Theme by Haydn (up to 2.10).

Answer these questions in your Music Book.

1. In which bars do sequences occur?

2. Describe each one

a) Is it a falling sequence or a rising sequence? 

b) How many repetitions are there of the pattern?

Compose a melody which makes use of at least one sequence. The melody should be a minimum of 8 bars long and can be for any instrument. Use the assignment in Google Classroom to complete the composition.

Fast finishers: Develop this composition so that it contains some use of 'call and response' as well. This will mean that you need to have two different instruments in it.