Music Glossary: orchestration

A one-page plan of sections, keys, tempos, hooks, and cues that guides writing, rehearsal, and production. more

Alternating phrases across sections/instruments to create conversation and forward motion. more

Secondary melodic lines woven around the lead. Aim for complementary rhythm and register separation. more

Selective unison or octave doubling to reinforce hooks or thicken textures without muddying the mix. more

Classic chord spreads created by dropping the 2nd or 3rd highest note an octave for smoother voice-leading. more

High-level control of level, filter, and density across sections to shape the emotional arc. more

Stacking complementary motifs (lead, countermelody, rhythm hook) so the chorus lands hard and sticks. more

Combining sustained pads with rhythmic pulses/arps to fill space while maintaining momentum. more

Choosing pitch ranges for each part to avoid clutter, preserve clarity, and support the lead melody. more

Subtle chord substitutions and passing chords that enhance color without losing the song’s core identity. more

Writing for instrument families (brass, winds, strings) with idiomatic ranges, articulations, and blend in mind. more

Planned build and release of layers through a song to shape energy and spotlight key moments. more

Short musical gestures (rises, drops, drum fills) that stitch sections together and signal changes. more

Close stacks notes tightly; open spreads tones across octaves. Use open for width/clarity, close for focus/warmth. more