Variation: transforming an idea

Variation changes selected properties of an idea while preserving a relationship with it. Proportional lengthening, shortening, contour inversion and ornamentation are different methods. Changing everything at once can obscure the original identity.

Take an original motive and make two versions: alter only rhythm in one, only pitch direction in the other. Listen for what remains recognisable. Randomisation may suggest material but is not synonymous with purposeful variation. The phrase’s role and position in the form help determine which transformation is useful.

Example

Doubling eighth–eighth–quarter produces quarter–quarter–half.

C D G → C D E G

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What kind of transformation halves every duration?

Answer

Rhythmic diminution: proportions remain while total duration shrinks.

References

Music Theory for the 21st-Century Classroom

Subject-expert review pending.

Variation: transforming an idea

Example

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Related topics

References