The task of making an arrangement out of a single-note melody seems formidable. Where to start? Work out the harmony and chords? Think about playing technique? Find spaces that allow dramatic runs or cadenzas to be inserted??
Well, yes. All of these. But a good place to begin is with a technique called blocking the melody. This technique will reveal essence of the melody. That essence, or contour, will also show the options for chord structure and identify where embellishments might be placed.
Here’s how to do it.
