I've been reading up on composition more and I've read that there are three main ways to compose. One is to compose the melody and then base the chords on it. The other is to compose the accompaniment first and then base a melody on that. The final is to do both at more or less the same time. I was wondering if this is accurate and if so, what some examples there are of pieces composed in these various ways.

well. for me. I compose both of them at the same time. i'm not sure how other composers in the forum did it though. eeheh

I can't seem to think of pieces composed in a specific way. I mean, as long as the composer gets the final product, right? :think: Anyways, I think the third way is the best. But if you're doing the first/second methods, then always keep in the back of your mind the accompaniment if you're doing the melody, and vice versa.

I've composed pieces all three ways. I've even composed one piece using all three ways (Journey to Elysium part 2). Three is the cleanest, but I kind of like basing my melodies off of my accompaniment.

By the way, are you reading Copeland's What to Listen for in Music?

By the way, are you reading Copeland's What to Listen for in Music?

No, actually, though I've heard that it's a good book and I've considered getting it.

No. I do not think that there are ways to compose, but structures to.

I never heard of those three, just some structures (Ex. Rondo, Sonata-Allegro, Scherzo etc.).

No. I do not think that there are ways to compose, but structures to.

Structures are definite and their guidelines should be followed very closely, but the way someone goes about composing is completely stylistic-- what makes the composer unique.

Anyway, virtually all of my compositions are done by a combination of those three approaches. If I'm trying to create an angry mood, it's generally better to work on the accompaniment first; if I'm working a somber section of a piece, it's better for me to compose both at the same time; and if I'm going for a sensational feeling, it's mandatory that I have a strong melody.

For me,

1st, find an interesting melody
2nd, finish the melodic line
3rd, harmonize some chords
4th, texture it
5th, finish the whole piece

done.