L7 + 8 - Composing a melody

Lesson Objectives:

• To compose a simple melody using notes from accompanying chords

It is almost 50 years since the manuscript (music) of Pachelbel’s Canon was discovered. In celebration of this, compose some new melodies in a similar style that will fit over this infamous ground bass

Success:

Successful outcomes will include:

• Creating a simple 4-bar melody that fits the accompanying harmony

• Developing a more elaborate 4-bar melody that employs passing notes and interesting rhythms.

• Structuring the melodies into a canon, creating a polyphonic texture

First, a quick reminder of the chords and scale for the key of D major.

Here are the chords in the order they appear in Pachelbel's Canon. See if you can spot melody one.

Here it is.

Have a go at creating your own melody in this style. Your melody should use only notes from the chord being played, and should be made entirely from minims.