Structure & Melody
Music: Edexcel GCSE, topic 5.2.2
Structure
This structure is similar to a ‘Head’ arrangement that is common in jazz music.
Solo
- The piece starts with a bass solo.
Structure
- The structure of the piece is:
- Intro.
- Verse 1.
- Break.
- Verse 2.
- Instrumental.
- Verse 3.
- Coda.
Jazz
- This structure is similar to a ‘Head’ arrangement that is common in jazz music.
Phrases
- Each of these sections are split into roughly 16 bar phrases.
Melody
The vocal line in Samba Em Preludio tends to sing the highest note of the accompanying chord.
Vocal line
- The vocal line is mainly syllabic (one note per syllable.)
- At the start of the piece the vocal line uses an ascending broken chord pattern.
Sequences
- The movement of the melody is mainly conjunct (moving in steps.)
- Sequences within the vocal line are used, for example in bar 4 and 5.
Accompanying chords
- The vocal line tends to sing the highest note of the accompanying chord:
- In a 9th chord the vocal part will play the 9th.
- In a 13th chord the vocal part plays the 13th note.
Test yourself on Structure & Melody
How does Samba Em Preludio start?
The Structure of Samba Em Preludio