Melody Writing Checklist (Leaving Cert Music): Revision Notes

Melody Writing Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure your melody is balanced, cohesive, and meets all exam requirements:

Structure and Phrasing

• Two Balanced Phrases: Typically 4 bars each for an 8-bar melody or 8 bars each for a 16-bar melody.
• Clear Cadences:
  • Phrase 1: Ends with an imperfect cadence (e.g., I-V or IV-V).
  • Phrase 2: Ends with a perfect cadence (e.g., V-I).

Tonality and Key

• Key Signature: Ensure all sharps or flats are used correctly.
• Tonic Note/Chord: Begin and end on the tonic for a sense of grounding.
• Modulation (Optional): Consider modulating to the dominant or relative minor for variety.

Melodic Motion

• Stepwise Motion: Use smooth, connected steps for most of the melody.
• Leaps: Add occasional, balanced leaps for interest.
• Resolve Leaps: Follow leaps with stepwise motion in the opposite direction.

Rhythm

• Varied Rhythms: Avoid monotony by mixing note values (e.g., crotchets, quavers).
• Style-Appropriate Rhythm: Match rhythms to the style of the given opening.
• Closure: Use a longer note (e.g., minim or semibreve) to end the melody.

Development and Interest

• Motif Development: Repeat and vary the opening motif using techniques like sequences.
• Climax Point: Include a high or dramatic point, typically in the second phrase.
• Ornamentation (Optional): Add trills or grace notes for expressiveness if appropriate.

Final Checks

• Balance: Ensure the melody feels cohesive and phrases are of equal length.
• Expression: Consider dynamics and articulation (e.g., legato, staccato).
• Simplicity: Keep the melody fluent and avoid overcomplicating rhythms or modulations.