Theme and Variation - how to bring a simple orchestral idea to life

Orchestral Composition Bootcamp is back! Term starts 3rd June. Limited places available.

Today lets explore how you arrange a simple theme several diffent ways using the full sections of the orchestra. Composer Guy Michelmore sets out to complete a short theme and variations in half an hour. So can you follow the different uses of the orchestra, the textures, the ways of presenting the theme? Check it out in this tutorial.

0:00 start
1:15 the basic theme
1:45 Adding spicato strings
2:20 adding some woodwind
3:49 The big uplifting variation
14:35 The quiet mysterious variation
26:30 the end section

[DarkSideofSynth]

Sweet. he's back.I've just seen him abducted by Spitfire aliens a minute ago...

[Rockhopper]

I have revisited this tutorial, love this piece of music, I call it tales of a country vet. Thank you

[wolfblaide]

Wonderful stuff Guy. It's these simple kind of demonstrations that I get the most out of... I think they are one of the best insights into how to write. Thanks!

[dilzaaaa]

Signed up for your bootcamp this morning. Hopefully it's as much fun as your regular videos. 🎉🎉🥳

[neutronrobotmusic]

Hey Guy! You probably won't read this, but I want to say thank you! <3

[rabahatmani]

Great composition! probably it will take me a year to do something half of it, 🙏

[tinytires]

Guy, I can't thank you enough for all your music teachings. I've never studied music, so your music theory is literally the only music theory I've ever gotten and it's been a huge help in learning exactly what I need to compose the music for my game. 🙏

[keithgardner]

Am doing a piece just now (very legato) and this has helped me enormously. Absolutely LOVE that bottom brass…takes me back to when I played bass trombone…brilliant stuff so please keep it up Guy 😁

[antonekholm]

Oh wow, the headset/radio mic is back! Lovely! 😁

[Multi_ToBi]

It's always such a pleasure to see you working! How you follow your motif and put your musical notions into an arrangement...
I see and hear years of practice and honed taste to make these musical miniatures. You always give me inspiration to try out ideas. Thank you for that!

[Rhinehardos]

Hallo Herr Michelmore,
vielen Dank für Ihren Content!
Es ist immer etwas dabei, das mich weiter bringt 😎👍
Grüße aus Deutschland 🙋

Ps: und ja, ich schreibe absichtlich in deutsch :o)

[ZzzzzzzxxxzzzYZ]

As a rock guitarist (previously a drummer), I've always had a fascination with more intricate genres of music. As a kid (teen), I'd bewilder my friends and bandmates with my love for artists like Steeley Dan, Camel, and other lesser-known-to-them musicians. When it comes to translating my experimental ideas onto my keyboard, I've faced some challenges. I do NOT play piano, but I still enjoy giving it a try. Your ability to showcase the flaws and provide guidance on how to fix and enhance them is much appreciated. It gives me hope that I can finally complete those unfinished musical pieces on my computer!

[Autumnspiano]

This is great information!! Thanks! I am composing orchestrals all the time and sometimes feel stuck and need inspo. I just started my channel a week ago and hope to get more subs and views soon! Your videos have been very helpful in getting ready to post music and feel comfortable knowing I have good quality music!

[spartacusjonesmusic]

I love watching you work. I learn a HUGE amount just from that.
Turns out, I may not be an idiot after all!

[davenesbitt]

Speaking as a newbie to music and DAW's, that was amazing and inspiring. Thanks

[samuraiflamenco]

Hi Guy! Recently bought the How to Write Music class and its a blast. Audio quality in your vids has come a long way since that class. Great work as always!

[michaeltablet]

Thank you so very much! Your passion is contagious! You are a great teacher!

[ranradd]

Thanks Guy, that was fantastic to watch and listen to.

[abdulkerimgur]

There is a lot to learn from you. Bless your heart...

[edbuller]

Love watching your vid's. learn so much