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Writer's pictureMichael Andrew Newell

Music topics

Updated: Aug 31, 2020

So, I'm still trying to get back on the band wagon with this blog. I have been brain storming topics for posts I intend on writing about in the future (hopefully at least monthly). Before I even start delving into the subject matter, I will say that all of these topics are based off of my perception and experience. The ever popular IMHO ("in my humble opinion") comes to mind.

Here is the list of topics:

- How I start a piece of music/jazz chart/song

- What I've learned about social media and social networking

- How I write for big band saxophone section

- Cross pollination and not restricting onesself to just music

- Small ensemble reduction arranging

- Constructive criticism and its necessity

- Use of octaves/unisons

- "The workspace" - what my studio has in it

- Use of parallel 5th/4th outside of music theory

- Writing on a deadline: "high art" and gut instinct

- The independent bass line (in classical, jazz, and contemporary)"If it sounds good, it is good."

- Planing chords / block chords / drop voicing / parallel coupling / line writing

- Music and technology: programs, apps, mixers, speakers, etc.)

- Grading scales for scholastic music

- Time management and related advice I've been been given over the years

- Chordal instruments in composition and arranging

- Score study vs. practical application vs. critical listening

- Time signatures: why is use time changes to keep interest 


Surely more topics will be added to this list, so keep tuned in for the first of many discussions!

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