Compositional Devices

What do we call: a persistent repeated phrase, chord pattern, or rhythm (repeated pattern of notes – usually occurs in the bass line)

• A cannon

• An Ostinato

• A Riff

• Parallel Motion

This device is called: a main theme that is varied in places (the basic structure of the original melody stays intact throughout though.)

• Theme and variation

• Cannon

• Bass line

• Motif

A sequence is:

• A Melisma

• Another word for repetition

• A more or less exact repetition of a passage at a higher or lower level of pitch.

• A type of texture.

These are all about the musical element

• Melody

• Texture

• Timbre

• Harmony

Imitation is

• The exact same musical phrase played by another instrument

• A musical phrase that is repeated

• A sustained melody

• The same as sequence

A cannon has

• Staggered entries

• Identical musical parts

• Identical musical parts and staggered entries

A melody is developed by using ‘fragments’ of the originally stated melody. These can occur in other parts (i.e. a counter melody or a bass line / ostinato) and not only in the main melodic line. This is....

• Cannon

• Fragmentation

• Inversion

• Passing Notes

What is the main purpose of modulation

• To make the song happier

• To make the song sadder

• To create a sense of building up to a high point

• It doesn't have a purpose

a note which forms a discord and is between 2 chordal notes is called a

• Auxiliary note

• Passing note

• Sharp note

• Flat note

What is the purpose of Recapitulation?

• Restate the main theme

• Repeat

• Go to the end