Musical Elements: Melody

Overview of Melody in the Western Classical Tradition

Melody is considered the tune of the piece, a sequence of notes arranged in a particular rhythmical pattern which makes it recognisable.
Intricate melodies were a distinctive feature through the Western Classical Tradition, from 1650-1910.
This period covers Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods, each representing distinct characteristics in regards to melody.

Typical Features of Melody in Baroque Period (1650-1750)

In the Baroque period, melodies were full of embellishments and ornamentations, making them grand and expressive.
Melodies were often composed above a basso continuo, a continual bass line.
Sequences and motifs were used and repeated throughout the piece.
The rule of the octave influenced the formation of melodies, with different harmonies being used for ascending and descending melodic motion.

Melody in Classical Period (1750-1820)

In the Classical period, melodies were cleaner, simpler, and more balanced.
The melodies were often catchy and easy to remember.
The melody often formed a key part of the sonata form prevalent in this era, with themes being developed, contrasted and resolved.
Use of periodic phrasing with clear cadences became common.

Melody in Romantic Period (1820-1910)

The Romantic period saw the use of long, passionate, and emotionally charged melodies.
Melodies of this period were characterised by wide leaps, chromaticism, and expressively dissonant harmonies to create tension.
Melodic development was flexible and the notion of thematic transformation became popular, meaning one melody may appear in many metamorphoses throughout a piece.

Remember Understanding and identifying these differences in melody across different periods can be incredibly helpful in recognizing musical stylistic emblems and in your performances or compositions. Each period honed a unique approach to melodies, playing a pivotal role in defining the characteristics of music produced during these eras.