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Contrapuntal Variation as a Composition Tool A fugue is a type of work
from the Baroque
Period that consists of multiple voices, i.e. polyphony, that are developed using counterpoint. Usually a subject melody is presented in
the exposition period, along |
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with an answer, an imitation that follows and responds
to the subject. The development
section uses a variety of techniques to work with the melodic material and
create suspense, tension, and other musical events. It is these techniques that can be of value
for composing not just fugues, but any type of work. Below are some of the main contrapuntal
techniques for variation and development. Augmentation
and Diminution - the durations of
the notes in the melody are augmented/lengthened or diminished/shortened. For example, the value of each note could
be doubled, or halved. Inversion
- intervals move in the opposite
direction than in the original melody, i.e. a leap downward becomes an upward
movement. Sequence - the identical melody is repeated at a different
pitch. Pedal
Point - one pitch is sustained,
often in the bass, while the melody and harmonies continue to change. Stretto - a
second voice enters before the first voice has finished its subject; in other
words the voices overlap. Modulation
- repeating the melody in another
key. Fragmentation
- quoting only a part of the
melody. Retrograde
- the melody is played forward and
backward at the same time. |
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Information
in this article was adapted in part from Counterpoint
in Composition |
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by Felix |
All articles (c) 1999-2006 by LIFTOFF! |