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"Create Your Own"

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Step 1 - Examine Your Eight Bar Composition.

Analyze the elements of your composition from Lesson #1. Focus on the notes and rhythms.

Step 2 - Create a Variation.

Create a slight variation of the notes and rhythms of your melody. For example, a single quarter note can become 2 different eighth notes. Look for interesting ways to reinterpret your melody.

Step 3 - Add Motion.

Focus on your left hand accompaniment. Alter the rhythm of that part as well. Find a way to add some momentum to the part. For example, a single half note can become two different quarter notes.

Step 4 - Complete All Eight Bars.

Continue to modify the full eight bars of your composition. Add additional elements as needed. Introduce some new elements in the last four bars (bars 5-8).

Step 5 - Extend the Length of the Composition

Extend the length of the composition to sixteen bars. Start with the next four bars only (bars 9-12). Use different root notes or harmonies in these bars.

Step 6 - Vary the Rhythmic Pattern

Use different rhythmic patterns than those of the first eight bars.

Step 7 - Finish the Composition

Finish the last four bars (bars 13-16). Re-use elements from the first eight bars. This will balance out the composition.