HOW TO WRITE A MELODY 1: Period - An Easy Formula for Better Melodies and Themes with Balance

Summary

In this video, Ryan, a full-time composer, explains the concept of the 'period' form, a common structure used in writing melodies. The period consists of an eight-bar theme with two main parts: a basic idea and a contrasting idea, followed by a return to the basic idea and a final cadence. He explores how this structure creates a satisfying musical arc, using a melody from Octopath Traveler as an example. Ryan then demonstrates how to apply this form by composing a simple melody, highlighting how this method can quickly lead to a strong, cohesive theme.

Takeaways

• 😀 The two basic patterns for writing melodies are the period form and the sentence form.
• 😀 Understanding the period form can significantly improve the shape, proportions, and ease of writing new melodies.
• 😀 A period is typically an 8-bar form consisting of a basic idea, a contrasting idea, a return to the basic idea, and a cadence.
• 😀 The basic idea, which lasts for two bars, represents the main motive of the melody and is usually harmonically stable, often staying on the tonic chord.
• 😀 The contrasting idea, also two bars, responds to the basic idea, usually by moving towards new harmonies and creating a sense of tension or unresolved feeling.
• 😀 The first four bars of the period form (basic idea + contrasting idea) are referred to as the antecedent, while the next four bars (return to basic idea + cadence) form the consequent.
• 😀 The cadence at the end of the period can be either a perfect cadence (feeling resolved) or a half cadence (feeling open and unfinished).
• 😀 A successful period form creates a musical 'question and answer' dynamic, where the first half feels unresolved and the second half brings closure.
• 😀 The period form is highly effective and commonly used, even in complex pieces like those from Octopath Traveler, which showcases a textbook example of the period form.
• 😀 By following the period form, you can write a melody quickly (80% of the way there) and then focus on making it more interesting with harmonic variations or different intervals.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the period form in melody writing?

The period form is used to create a satisfying, structured melody by organizing it into two main ideas: a basic idea and a contrasting idea. This form helps to shape themes with better proportions and coherence, making melodies easier to compose and more engaging to listen to.

How many bars are typically used in a period form melody?

A period form melody typically consists of 8 bars. While it can be modified to be shorter or longer, 8 bars are considered the textbook version.

What are the key parts of a period form melody?

The key parts of a period form melody are the basic idea (2 bars), the contrasting idea (2 bars), a return to the basic idea (2 bars, possibly with variation), and a cadence to conclude the melody (2 bars).

What is the role of the basic idea in the period form?

The basic idea serves as the main motif of the theme. It is harmonically stable and sets the tone for the melody. It is the most recognizable part of the theme and is typically repeated or varied throughout the piece.

Why is the contrasting idea important in a period form melody?

The contrasting idea is important because it provides variety and creates a sense of progression. It introduces new material or a variation of the basic idea, and it leaves the melody unresolved, building anticipation for the return of the basic idea.

What does the antecedent and consequent refer to in period form?

The antecedent refers to the first phrase of the period, which consists of the basic idea followed by the contrasting idea. The consequent is the second phrase, where the basic idea is repeated (possibly with variation) and concluded with a cadence.

How does the cadence function in a period form melody?

The cadence acts as the conclusion of the period, providing a sense of closure or finality. It can be a perfect cadence (I-V-I) or a half cadence, but it should give the feeling that the theme has come to a complete thought and is ready to either repeat or transition to something new.

What is the metaphor used to describe the period form?

A metaphor used to describe the period form is that of tossing a ball up and then letting it fall back down. The first four bars (the antecedent) raise a question or anticipation, while the second four bars (the consequent) resolve that question or bring the melody to a conclusion.

How does Octopath Traveler’s ‘Cyrus the Scholar’ exemplify the period form?

In ‘Cyrus the Scholar’ from Octopath Traveler, the melody follows the period form: the first four bars introduce the basic idea (staying on F minor), followed by a contrasting idea with more harmonic progression and a question-like feeling. The consequent returns to the basic idea and resolves the theme with a cadence.

What is the significance of the ‘period’ terminology in the context of melody writing?

The term ‘period’ in melody writing refers to a passage of time, like a season, rather than a punctuation mark. It highlights the cyclical nature of the melody, where the basic idea returns and resolves, creating a sense of completion and continuity.