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A pattern that contains four instrument parts (string bass, cello, clarinet, and flute) is used here to illustrate the ways chord level assignments can affect the notes in a part. The string bass, cello, clarinet, and flute parts are each assigned to one of four chord levels: levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. The pattern uses a 2C major chord for composition. The pattern encounters two chords: a simple 1Bb7, and a 1Bb7b9#9#1113.
The notes in all parts consist of a C major scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, and B) written in a middle range appropriate to the instrument playing the part. The following table lists the notes in each part.
Part | Original notes | Comments |
Flute | C6, D6, E6, F6, G6, A6, B6 | C6 is equal to the note one octave above middle C. |
Clarinet | C5, D5, E5, F5, G5, A5, B5 | C5 is equal to middle C. |
Cello | C4, D4, E4, F4, G4, A4, B4 | C4 is equal to the note one octave below middle C. |
String Bass | C3, D3, E3, F3, G3, A3, B3 | C3 is equal to the note two octaves below middle C. |
The behavior of each part as it encounters various chords depends on two factors: what chord level is assigned to the part, and what chord structures and scales are contained at that level in the chords that are encountered.