Spicing Up Your Composition

Now that we have your main melody and harmony finished, it’s time to take things to the next level. In this chapter, we will look at ways we can make your compositions more interesting, more intricate and driving. This can be done by introducing elements like counter melodies, ostinatos, interesting rhythms and sound design. We’re going to go through a few ways to use each of these in the following lessons.

To begin, let’s have a look at what these things can do to your composition.

Below you can listen to a theme consisting of only a main melody and harmony. I’ve then taken that main theme and introduced a counter melody, as well as a little ostinato. Listen to how much more alive and interesting it sounds.

Only Melody and Harmony:

With Ostinato and Countermelody:

Other things we'll look at, is using atmospheres and sound design to make your themes more interesting. Have a listen to some examples below:

Sound Design

Atmospheres

Don’t be discouraged if you think this sounds extremely advanced right away. In the following lessons, I’ll take you through several different ways to spice up your compositions, including using countermelodies, sound design, ostinatos and rhythms. Let’s start with one of my favorites, counter melodies!