Quick Start Composition - Ideas Using Numbers (Download as word doc)

Click on the buttons next to each number category to download notated ideas that Martha composed just for you to help you get started! Use the blank notation to continue the idea or copy the notation straight into your favorite notation program. Feel free to change the ideas, expand, rearrange, adapt, morph, play, etc. These quick starts are appropriate for all levels, but are especially helpful for beginning and intermediate pianist composers.

Threes or multiples (6, 9, 12) ​

Pick 3 notes either far apart or close together, solid or broken and turn into harmony (chords)
3/4 time, 3/8, 6/8 time
Use multiple intervals of a 3rd as the basis of more exotic harmonies
Use 3 notes as melody, extending as you wish

Fours ​

Pick 4 notes – lots of potential for major, minor and 7th chords and unique harmonies
4/8, 4/4 time
Pick 4 to begin a melody or create a skeleton of 4 notes to fill in
Quartal harmony – stacks of 4 ths

Fives

Pick 5 notes as actual melody or harmonic ostinato with melody overtop
​5/8, 5/4 time
Patterns with 5 fingers, contrary motion, experiment with different patterns and sounds
Open 5ths for a majestic open-ended creation
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MORE INSPIRING IDEAS:
1. Commit to one day per week to work on your composition and watch it grow and develop over time!
2. Call a friend! Share your challenges and creations with a composer friend or teacher.
3. Freely play on your instrument to find unique sounds and rhythms.
4. Add words to your melody! Try it fast, try it slow.
5. Take a break…have some popcorn! 6. Find listening time to explore new or favorite composers

 2020, Martha Hill Duncan