Now that you have chosen a theme or plot, it is time for you to compose your own derivative work. Think of what conventions and musical elements you can use to symbolize and express your story.

Question

Your score must include the following:

at least a keyboard instrument (piano)
at least eight measures
a key signature of at least one or more sharp or flat
two dynamic markings
a variety of rhythmic patterns and rests
a tempo marking
a variety of pitches
Your description must include the following:

at least five sentences
a description of the key you chose and why
a description of the plot or theme, and where the idea came from
appropriate use of musical vocabulary when describing your work
Notation
Select the icon on your computer to launch Finale NotePad®. Students are asked to download Finale NotePad the first time they use the tool in each music course. The first instance of Finale NotePad is found in Unit 1, Lesson 3, Page 9.

Title your composition appropriately.

Type your name as the composer.

Choose piano as the instrument, and then select the Add button. You may choose additional instruments if you wish.

Choose either three-four or four-four time, choose the key signature, and type 8 for the number of measures. Select the Finish button.

Adjust the tempo. Your tempo should match the motion of the piece. If you want a faster-moving piece, increase the tempo. If you want a calmer piece, reduce the tempo.

Answer 1

Title: Whispers of the Forest

Composer: [Your Name]

Description

For this composition, I chose the key of G minor, which has two flats in its key signature (B♭ and E♭). This key evokes a sense of mystery and introspection, perfectly aligning with the theme of my piece about a wanderer exploring an enchanted forest at twilight. The stormy and dark quality typical of G minor sets the scene for both wonder and trepidation, as the wanderer encounters the whispers of the forest that seem both inviting and foreboding.

The plot centers around the juxtaposition of light and dark, where the wanderer feels a growing connection with the environment around them. The idea came from the imagery of nature in various folklore, where forests are often portrayed as magical places filled with secrets and unseen entities. Musically, I utilized a variety of rhythmic patterns—such as syncopation in the left hand to create a sense of movement and flowing eighth notes in the right hand to paint a picture of softly rustling leaves. The piece employs dynamics, starting with a soft piano marking to convey the quiet of the forest before building to a more forceful forte section to depict the rising tension as the wanderer discovers deeper mysteries.

The tempo marking of Andante (moderately slow) captures the essence of a gentle but inevitable discovery, with the pacing allowing listeners to feel the serenity of the forest while also awaiting implicit surprises. Notable melodies and harmonies intertwine through the use of chromatic pitches, creating a lush soundscape that reflects various feelings of awe, curiosity, and the tantalizing uncertainty of the journey ahead.

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Notation Elements

• Instrumentation: Piano
• Time Signature: 4/4
• Key Signature: G minor (two flats: B♭ and E♭)
• Tempo Marking: Andante
• Dynamic Markings:
  • Piano (p) for the introduction,
  • Forte (f) for the climax
• Rhythmic Patterns: Varying quarter notes, eighth notes, and rests
• Measures: 8 measures long

(Note: After composing, adjust specific dynamics, rhythmic patterns, and pitches in Finale NotePad to finalize your work!)