Seven Deadly Sins of Music Making

The Seven Deadly Sins of Music Making, as identified by Richard Floyd, are articulation, dynamics, rhythms, tempo, line, silence, and proportion. Using examples from wind band repertoire, Floyd offers wisdom and solutions for musical improvement, applicable to musicians and educators across all disciplines.

Format: Book
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2021
Publisher: GIA Publications

The Seven Deadly Sins of Music Making, as identified by Richard Floyd, encompass a range of musical transgressions that can occur during the creative process. These sins are not always obvious or subtle, but they can have a significant impact on the quality and expressiveness of music. In this essay, we will explore each of these sins and consider how they can be avoided or overcome.

Articulation: Articulation refers to the clarity and precision of musical notes and phrases. It involves the use of proper breath control, tonguing techniques, and articulation marks to convey the intended musical expression. Poor articulation can result in a lack of clarity, muddy sound, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid articulation sins, musicians should focus on developing a strong breath control and a clear and precise tonguing technique. They should also be aware of the specific articulation marks and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

Dynamics: Dynamics refer to the volume and intensity of musical sounds. They can be used to create a range of emotions and effects, from soft and gentle to loud and dramatic. Excessive or inappropriate use of dynamics can result in a lack of control, distortion, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid dynamics sins, musicians should focus on developing a sense of balance and control over their volume and intensity. They should also be aware of the specific dynamics markings and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

Rhythms: Rhythms are the patterns of musical sounds and silences over time. They can be used to create a sense of movement, energy, and tension in music. Improper use of rhythms can result in a lack of coherence, confusion, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid rhythms sins, musicians should focus on developing a sense of rhythm and timing. They should also be aware of the specific rhythmic patterns and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

Tempo: Tempo refers to the speed of musical sounds and movements. It can be used to create a range of moods and emotions, from slow and peaceful to fast and energetic. Improper use of tempo can result in a lack of momentum, confusion, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid tempo sins, musicians should focus on developing a sense of tempo and timing. They should also be aware of the specific tempo markings and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

Line: Line refers to the melodic and harmonic structure of music. It involves the use of pitch, rhythm, and harmony to create a sense of direction and coherence. Improper use of line can result in a lack of clarity, dissonance, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid line sins, musicians should focus on developing a strong sense of melody and harmony. They should also be aware of the specific melodic and harmonic patterns and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

Silence: Silence is an important element of music, as it can be used to create a sense of tension, contrast, and relaxation. Improper use of silence can result in a lack of focus, confusion, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid silence sins, musicians should focus on developing a sense of silence and its uses in music. They should also be aware of the specific silence markings and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

Proportion: Proportion refers to the balance and harmony of musical elements. It involves the use of different musical elements, such as pitch, rhythm, and harmony, in a way that creates a sense of balance and coherence. Improper use of proportion can result in a lack of balance, dissonance, and a lack of expressiveness. To avoid proportion sins, musicians should focus on developing a sense of balance and harmony in their music. They should also be aware of the specific proportion markings and symbols used in their musical repertoire and practice them carefully.

In conclusion, the Seven Deadly Sins of Music Making are a range of musical transgressions that can occur during the creative process. By avoiding or overcoming these sins, musicians can create a world of artistic, expressive music that goes beyond the printed page. Whether you are a musician or an educator, this book offers valuable insights and actionable solutions that can help you improve your music-making skills.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 161 x 236 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781622774487