Topmusicanswers
- Does the melody have to match the chords?
- How do you fit chords in a melody?
- What is the relationship between chords and melody?
- Is it better to start with chords or melody?
Does the melody have to match the chords?
Not necessarily, because more than one chord might fit a melody at any point. Also, a melody can exist in its own right with no chords at all. Chords are an optional enhancement of a melody. But you can usually guess the likely outline of a chord progression.
How do you fit chords in a melody?
First, always try your 1 chord...that's a great place to start and it will usually fit just right with the first note. In this case, play the Chord with the notes C, E, & G. Play the chord with your left hand while you play the melody in your right hand. Just play the 1st measure.
What is the relationship between chords and melody?
Non-chord tones will give your melody a sense of momentum and tension, while chord tones will give your melody a sense of stability and release. Of the chord tones, roots and fifths have the most stability, while thirds and sevenths strike a nice balance.
Is it better to start with chords or melody?
You can almost always tell the songs that started with chords: the melodies tend to sit around one or two notes as the chords change underneath. By focusing first on melody, you are more likely to imagine more interesting melodic shapes, including leaps, a climactic high point, and a better use of vocal range.
