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Complete the four-part vocal harmonisation below by adding the alto, tenor and bass parts - NSC Music - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Complete the four-part vocal harmonisation below by adding the alto, tenor and bass parts. The harmonisation will be marked according to the following criteria: Co... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Complete the four-part vocal harmonisation below by adding the alto, tenor and bass parts - NSC Music - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Complete the four-part vocal harmonisation below by adding the alto, tenor and bass parts.
Answer
To complete the four-part vocal harmonisation, follow these steps:
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Identify the Root Notes: Review the given melody and determine the root notes for the alto, tenor, and bass parts. Ensure that each part harmonises well with the melody.
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Choose Appropriate Intervals: For each voice part (alto, tenor, bass), select intervals that fit well within the range of each voice type. Generally, the alto will harmonise a third or a sixth above the bass, and the tenor will typically sit a third above the alto.
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Maintain Smooth Voice Leading: Ensure that each voice part moves smoothly to the next note. Avoid large leaps unless stylistically appropriate.
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Respect Chord Structure: As you add the parts, ensure that the chords formed by the four voices are correct according to conventional harmonic rules. Check that cadences are appropriately placed.
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Consider Doubling: Choose which notes may be doubled, typically avoiding the fifth as a doubled note to maintain balance and avoid dissonance.
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Final Review: Once the parts are added, review for correctness in notation and spacing before finalizing.
This process ensures that the composition is musically cohesive and satisfyingly rich in harmony.
Step 2
Complete the piece below by adding suitable harmonic material in the open spaces on the stave. Continue in the style suggested by the given material in bar 1.
Answer
To complete the piece with suitable harmonic material, use the following steps:
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Analyze Bar 1: Look at the chords suggested in bar 1 and ensure that the added harmonic material matches this style. Identify the chord progression used in bar 1.
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Choose Harmonically Relevant Chords: When filling in the open spaces, select chords that relate closely to those in bar 1. This means considering inversions and variations that fit the melody.
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Maintain a Consistent Rhythm: Pay attention to the rhythmic feel established in bar 1. Use similar note values and rhythmic patterns when adding your harmonic material.
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Incorporate Voice Leading Best Practices: Ensure smooth transitions where the notes move by small intervals, ideally by step or minimal leap, to contribute to a pleasant harmonic flow.
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Final Adjustments: Once your harmonic material is added, play through the entire piece to ensure continuity and cohesion with the overall structure.
These guidelines will help in creating harmonious and stylistically appropriate music.