Musical Arrangement: Melodic Harmonization, Countermelody, Doubling, and Hits

Melodic Harmonization

  • Definition: An additional melodic line using the same rhythm as the main melody but different pitches to create a harmonious accompaniment.

  • Target Notes: Melodic chord tones. These should be harmonized with another chord tone, preferably a 3rd or 6th below.

  • Approach Notes: All non-chord tones (NCTs) in the melody. These should be harmonized with the same interval as the upcoming target note.

  • Exceptions: While 3rds and 6ths are preferred, perfect intervals can be used to maintain musical integrity and avoid unnatural stationary harmony.

Countermelody

  • Definition: An additional melodic line that complements the primary melody, typically residing in the "Mid-ground" of the arrangement.

  • Arrangement Hierarchy:

    • Foreground: Melody.

    • Mid-ground: Countermelody or Melodic Harmonization.

    • Background: Pad (chords).

  • Inverse Relationship of Activity: To ensure the countermelody stays in the mid-ground, avoid overlapping activity by using rests or long notes when the primary melody is active.

  • Fills: A type of countermelody that does not overlap at all with the melody, used to occupy gaps in phrasing (e.g., horn fill in Kelis "Jerk Ribs" or improvised fills in Bon Iver "Beth/Rest").

  • References: Jamiroquai "Fallin'" and Radiohead "Give Up the Ghost."

Doubling

  • Definition: Multiple voices conveying the same musical idea using the same rhythms and pitch classes.

  • Unison Doubling: Two or more voices perform the exact same pitches. This creates a distinct timbre compared to a solo instrument (e.g., Chicago "Hard Habit To Break").

  • Octave Doubling: The same material presented simultaneously across multiple octaves. Common in orchestral strings for emotive melodies and in synth or horn sections.

  • Orchestral Combinations:

    • Violins with Flute/Oboe.

    • Viola with Clarinet.

    • Cello/Bass with Bassoon/Bass Clarinet.

Hits

  • Definition: Percussive chords or pitches (also called stabs, kicks, or punches) used to accent the melody or fill gaps in vocal phrasing.

  • Usage: While found in most styles, they are a staple element of horn section writing.

  • Reference: Maxwell "Cold."