Music Theory: Melody Manipulation

This class will introduce the concept of motivic manipulation - taking a short melody and transforming it using sequence, rhythmic augmentation/diminution, inversion, and retrograde. Following an introductory segment, learners will analyse short fragments relating to an initial melody, to match the type of manipulation used each time. This will be done firstly by having a go independently, then by sharing answers as a group to check answers. Following this, the remaining time will be devoted to learners having a go at manipulating melodies using either examples from the class or something self-created.

Teaching will largely take place via the whiteboard and shared screen within zoom.
There will be some quiet time during this session for learners to try the analysis and motivic manipulation independently, but they are welcome to ask questions during this time.

Prior knowledge: Learners will need to be able to read notes in at least one clef (treble, alto or bass) in order to complete the activities, and they should be familiar with major and minor scales.