Contrasts Revised

I heard back from John DelVento who had a few good suggestions to adapt the piece to his needs. The first suggestion was in response to my concern about range. The high Db in measure 48 was possible but would be a weak sounding note. Since I wanted this to build to the Allegro, I changed measure 48 to a 3/4 measure, left out the Db on beat 4 and altered notes on the 2nd beat. This accomplishes the drive to the Allegro I wanted in a similar manner.

I was also concerned about the range at the end of the piece, but John said this would be okay. But in looking at it again, I decided to take the first run down an octave which makes the ending more effective.

John also wanted more rhythmic variety in measure 102. Since I wanted a repeated note idea for the beginning of the canon, I broke up the constant 16th notes by putting a eighth note on beat 3.

The last revision was to add a ritard on beat 4 of measure 38 with an A tempo on measure 38. I like this change and it shows the musicality of John, who made the suggestion.

Composers should always be willing to adapt their music to the needs of their performers if it does not compromise in intent of the music. I also find that a objective 2nd party who can listen to my music with fresh ears can also be a benefit. I usually play my compositions for my wife who has come up with many fine ideas to improve my music. Even though I have been composing for 55 years, I still have things that I can learn from others. I thank all those who have offered suggestions over the years. Creating a musical composition is similar to an author creating a novel. If one reads the acknowledgments at the beginning of the book, one realizes that the final product is a result of many others who inspire or assist in the creation of the final product.

To see and hear what I have composed thus far, go to  http://www.cooppress.net/contrasts_blog.html

Dr. B