![]() ![]() In intervallic diminution the process is reversed: This process is called intervallic augmentation. In the repeat of the melody, the interval has been increased to a major 10th (between the C and the E an octave higher).Įach of the successive intervals are also extended (in the opening melody the intervals are a major second, whilst in the repeat of the melody they have increased a minor 3rd). The melody has an interval of a perfect 5th between the C and the G in the 1st bar. Have a look/listen to the following example: However, you may also see composers use a technique that augments the size of the intervals of the melody. The most common form of augmentation and diminution is the lengthening and shortening of the note lengths. This process of shortening the note lengths is called rhythmic diminution. This is then repeated again to produce 6 thirty second notes (demisemiquavers) and one sixteenth note (semiquaver). The melody is repeated again and the notes are halved in length again to be 6 sixteenth notes (semiquavers) and one eighth note (quaver). ![]() The same pitches are then repeated, but this time the lengths of the notes are halved to be 6 eighth notes (quavers) and one quarter note (crotchet). In this example the opening melody again uses 6 quarter notes (crotchets) followed by a half note (minim). Have a look/listen to this example of diminution: This technique often brings a heightened sense of “urgency” or “tension” to the music. Diminutionĭiminution is the shortening of the time values of the notes of a melody. This lengthening of the note lengths is called rhythmic augmentation. The same pitches are then repeated, but this time the lengths of the notes are doubled to be 6 half notes (minims) and one whole note (semibreve). Have a look/listen to this example of augmentation:Ĭan you see how the opening melody uses 6 quarter notes (crotchets) followed by a half note (minim)? It is described as “a device which adds dignity and impressiveness”!! (Oxford Dictionary of Music, Kennedy, M.)Ĭomposers often use it as a technique to bring “majesty” or “climax” to the end of a section or piece. AugmentationĪugmentation is the lengthening of the time values of the notes of a melody. Let’s have a look at each technique in turn. They are great tools for you to be able to understand and use as a composer. Augmentation and diminution are two musical techniques used by composers to develop/vary a melody. ![]()
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