Every year LEMS students participate in Project Composition. Through this project students are taught principles of composition and music theory. Students are encouraged to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in music and tell a story to the listener. Mrs. Tallamy guides each student through the creative process as they learn the art and skill of writing music. The studio prints a collection of student pieces annually.

Mrs. Tallamy has compiled materials and guidance for students embarking on music composition. She has also developed resources for teachers. Sample materials and outlines of our studio process are below. For more detailed information check out our Teacher Workshops.

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Project Composition at LEMS

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Project Composition Timeline

September:  Students begin an idea.
October/November: Students develop their idea. All student compositions must be in active development by Thanksgiving Break. Publishing agreements should be submitted.
December: First draft of composition due.
January: Second draft of composition due.
February: Final Compositions due.

 

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Cover Art Competition

Every good book needs an engaging cover. Students are encouraged to submit a full color, music related original piece of art for consideration. 

Deadline for Submission: November

Winner will be announced at the Holiday Party.

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Publication

Students are encouraged, though not required, to have their compositions included in our published music book. 

ALL PARTICIPANTS must have a Publishing Agreement on file by Thanksgiving Break. Compositions will be compiled, published and made available for purchase.

Project Composition Achievements

Outstanding Composition Award
This award is given to the students who show excellence is their composition skills and creativity. Two awards are given, one for 1st-3rd year students, and one to an advanced student (4+ years).

Composition Honor
The selections in this category recognize excellent composition and unique artistry. These pieces will be honored by being included in the following year’s teaching curriculum.
 

Getting the Conversation Started - Tips for Composition

The idea can come from:

  • Arrangement of an existing melody

  • Exploring musical form

  • Connecting to your senses (sight, sound, movement)

  • The way you feel

  • A story you want to tell

The beginning can come from:

  • Common chord progressions

  • Melody Logic

  • Free Playing

  • Form

Categories to address when fine crafting your composition

  • Rhythm: (cadence, meter, tempo)

  • Dynamics: (forte, piano, [etc.], crescendo, decrescendo,…)

  • Melody: (pitch, theme)

  • Harmony: (chord progression, consonance, dissonance, key signature)

  • Tone color: (register, range, instrumentation)

  • Form: (binary, ternary, strophic, through-composed,…)