In Context

5. Where do repeated notes occur relative to
• the MUSICAL PHRASE?
• the TEXTUAL PHRASE?
• any REPETITIVE PATTERNS?

Careful placement of ties contributes towards a sense of flow through the MUSICAL PHRASE. As it draws to a close, more rhythmic activity may be desirable, so use more repeated notes. (See the blue “X” spots.)

It is appropriate to reflect the punctuation and the sense of the TEXTUAL PHRASE in the music. Punctuation can be emphasized in the music by BREAKING repeated notes, possibly even by breaking all four parts. You can note these with the verse number in the text where a break should occur (see the pink “1” or “2”).

On the other hand, a continuation of the thought can be reflected in the music by a tendency towards TYING repeated notes.

Index