John Mcgann Developing Melodic Variations On Fiddle Tunes

John McGann's Developing Melodic Variations on Fiddle Tunes: Mandolin Edition

by John McGann

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18160 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	116 pages

FREE

John Mcgann is a world-renowned fiddle player and teacher. He has developed a unique approach to teaching fiddle tunes that emphasizes the development of melodic variations.

Mcgann believes that melodic variations are essential for creating interesting and engaging fiddle playing. They allow the player to explore the melody in different ways and to create their own unique interpretations.

In this article, Mcgann will discuss his approach to developing melodic variations. He will provide exercises and examples that will help you to develop your own melodic variations.

What Are Melodic Variations?

Melodic variations are changes that are made to the melody of a tune. These changes can be as simple as changing a single note or as complex as reharmonizing the entire tune.

Melodic variations can be used to create a variety of effects. They can be used to add interest and variety to a tune, to create a new interpretation of a tune, or to simply make a tune more difficult to play.

How to Develop Melodic Variations

There are many different ways to develop melodic variations. Some common techniques include:

• Changing the rhythm of the melody
• Adding or removing notes
• Changing the pitch of notes
• Reharmonizing the tune

It is important to experiment with different techniques and to find what works best for you. There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to developing melodic variations.

Exercises for Developing Melodic Variations

Here are a few exercises that you can use to develop your own melodic variations:

1. Start with a simple fiddle tune. Play the tune through a few times to get the melody in your head.
2. Once you have the melody in your head, start experimenting with different ways to change it. Try changing the rhythm, adding or removing notes, changing the pitch of notes, or reharmonizing the tune.
3. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. The best way to learn is to experiment and to make mistakes.
4. Once you have developed a few variations, try playing them for other fiddle players. Get their feedback and see what they think.

Examples of Melodic Variations

Here are a few examples of melodic variations that Mcgann has developed:

• In the tune "The Blackbird," Mcgann changes the rhythm of the melody by adding a syncopated beat.
• In the tune "The Sally Gardens," Mcgann adds a new harmony to the tune, which gives it a more modern sound.
• In the tune "The Star of the County Down," Mcgann changes the pitch of some of the notes in the melody, which gives it a more haunting sound.

These are just a few examples of the many different ways that you can develop melodic variations. With a little practice, you will be able to develop your own unique interpretations of fiddle tunes.

Melodic variations are an essential part of fiddle playing. They allow the player to explore the melody in different ways and to create their own unique interpretations. By developing your own melodic variations, you can add interest and variety to your playing and make your fiddle playing more personal and expressive.

John McGann's Developing Melodic Variations on Fiddle Tunes: Mandolin Edition

by John McGann

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18160 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	116 pages

FREE