12. Composing a Melody Over a Chord Progression

Composing a melody is an art and not a science. There is no set way that will guarantee something memorable.


As you write your melody, remember that:

  • Melodies are made out of phrases that contrast with each other in an interesting way.

  • Phrases are made out of motifs that can repeat or change throughout a phrase.

  • The rhythm might repeat while the notes changes or the notes might stay the same but the rhythm may change.

  • The last note of a phrase should usually land on a note that is in the chord being played in the accompaniment:

      • C chord (C-E-G)

      • Am chord (A-C-E)

      • F chord (F-A-C)

      • G chord (G-B-D)

  • Keep working on the melody until it is satisfying to you.