To harmonize a melody, follow the steps below.
- Analyze the melody
- determine the key
- label the scale degrees of the melody
- Pick Harmonies
- It is very helpful to write out all the possible harmonies for each melody note (following the given harmonic rhythm)
- Remember that once you pick a harmony, it affects future possible choices, much like species counterpoint.
- Try to think in groups of harmonies by function. Write out the cadence first. Look to start with a tonic prolongation pattern. Look for possible voice exchanges between the soprano and bass parts.
- Write the bass line, choosing between root position and first inversion triads (if you haven’t already) to create an interesting melodic contour.
- Check for objectionable parallels between the given soprano and your composed bass line. Fix if needed.
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