By G Eaton
To arrange means to take an existing composition and:
·
Re-write it for other instruments
·
Re-work it in a simplified or more complex form depending on the
abilities of a particular group of musicians
·
Extend and enhance it for performing to a broader or more specific
audience.
o
Therefore, when arranging, consider your:
1.
Instruments
2.
Musicians
3.
Audience
o
The purpose of arranging a piece might be to:
1.
Present a popular and familiar tune in a fresh way
2.
Make an unfamiliar tune accessible to new audiences, e.g. arranging a
classical tune in a popular style.
o
Musical considerations:
1.
Appropriate tempi
2.
Consistent stylistic elements
(not potpourri)
3.
Overall form and structure
4. Clear presentation and development of the original tune
5. Harmony – original chord progression and possible variations
Some techniques that work, include:
·
Melody:
o
Clear first statement of the original tune
o
Move melody between instruments
o
Double the melody in different instruments
o
Vary the register of the melody (High / Low)
·
Structure
o
Decide number of verses, choruses, and whether to use an introduction,
links, bridges, and/or a tag (coda).
o
Phrasing – use the break between phrases to add interest and
activities in other instruments (e.g. have the Brass punctuate the phrase
endings)
o
Change key, perhaps for the last verse to give it a lift.
o
Texture – perhaps thicken the texture as the arrangement progresses
·
Development of the original tune
o
Add a harmony to the melody, (i.e. another instrument moving with the
same rhythm as the melody and in 3rds or 6ths parallel to it)
o
Add a countermelody (a new melodic idea with an independent rhythm, that
interacts with the original tune – try to make it active rhythmically when the
melody is static, with held notes)
o
Embellish the melody with passing notes etc.
o
Use a motif (short, characteristic section of the tune) and repeat it in
other instruments
o
Make a sequence of such a motif (i.e. repeat it at different pitches)
o
Use ‘Imitation’ – e.g. copy and paste the melody a bar later in
another instrument (check harmonic implications)
o
Use ‘Augmentation’ of the original tune – i.e. playing it (or
sections of it) half speed or with doubled note values.
o Perhaps include Harmonic variations, (changing the accompanying chords)
o Change the tempo – e.g. broaden (make slower) for last verse, and make the accompanying parts more active.