Arranging and Orchestration Concepts!! 87Approaching the Score
Begin by writing a simple sketch of an arrangement; include chord sym-
bols and notate the harmonic structure, including inner melodic lines. It is
helpful to use the top line of the score paper as an overall guide. Write the
melody, chord symbols, and lyrics and/or dialogue on the top line. Once
this has been completed, begin writing the arrangement. Use the following
outline as a guide.
Organize the score paper with the proper name and key signature
for each instrument. (Follow this procedure whether working with tradi-
tional score paper or with a computer notation program such as Finale
or Sibelius.)If writing a transposed score, change the key signature for
each instrument; if writing in concert key, each instrument should have
the same key signature. If the score is for a traditional orchestra or band,
some score paper manufacturers provide paper with the names of the
instruments printed. It is best to use paper that has eight measures per
page. Score paper that has only four measures per page can become bulky
and difficult for a conductor to follow.
Some composers write sketches and an orchestrator completes the
arrangement.Composers work in different ways. Some write detailed
sketches using eight or more staves, while others only use two to four
staves. They usually indicate the suggested instrumentation for the orches-
trator to follow. Many composers record the composition using synthe-
sizers; this serves as a detailed guide for the orchestrator. Some composers
watch a MIDI notation computer program while recording an orchestra.
(The notation program displays the MIDI notes as regular notation manu-
script.) The composer can make certain that the orchestration is accurate
by following the MIDI notation. This process also saves time in the record-
ing studio. It is easier to detect errors and correct them.
Some arrangers write a full sketch of the arrangement and then
orchestrate it themselves.This generally depends on the amount of time
they have to complete the project. Traditionally, arranging commercials
has a quick turnaround period, and there is not enough time to notate an
entire sketch. Most arrangers who write on synthesizers program the
arrangement rather than write it out. They print the notation program that
is included with most MIDI sequencer programs.
Some arrangers write in concert key.I prefer writing in concert, espe-
cially for a large orchestra. It is easier to ‘‘see’’ the harmonies and quickly
find mistakes. If writing in concert, be familiar with the proper transposi-
tions. In the studio, transposition problems must be addressed and solved
instantly.
Some arrangers prefer transposing while writing. They think that by
seeing the same notes the players read, it is easier to determine if the parts