Making music simpler

Why using 4 part harmony when 2 part harmony can be used?


This idea came about while trying to accompany singing Freelove - Depeche Mode on glockenspiel using just 2 mallets.


It sounded great!


In fact it is 3 part harmony.
The male voice and the 2 notes played on glockenspiel.


In fact it is more than 3 part harmony as the notes on glockenspiel sustain a lot. So while playing the new notes then previous ones as still subtly there. This creates amazing prepared intervals which sound great.


What was played on glockenspiel goes somewhat like this:


D F        if you' ve been hiding from
D bB      love
D F        if you' ve been hiding from
D bB      love
D bB      I can understand where you're coming
C E        from , i can
bD  F     understand where you're coming from
C bE

D F  (similarly 2nd verse)

         and I'm only here
F bA
F bE to bring you
bB F freelove, let's make it
F bA clear
F bE that this is
bB F freelove, no hidden
bB F catch no strings att-
C bE -ached, just
F bA freelove
bE bA no hidden (bE is passing bass note)
bB F catch no strings att-
C bE -ached, just
F bA freelove



etc


When the next note to be played is the same as the previous it can be not played as it already keeps singing


It is very easy.


All that is needed is knowing the bass code of the particular music.


And knowing the scale ie what flats or sharps for which note.


For example if the bass code is C7 we play 1 3 5 7
C bE G bB (E and B are flat as on chorus the scale is F minor)



See also:


Bach Bass Rules - Bach, Niedt, PDF



Harmony - Piston