Leaderboard

I feel like I'm stuck in a rut of composing four and eight bar phrases. When I try to break the mold and try something different, the result sounds awkward, forced, and clunky. What are some methods of composing smooth asymmetric and extended phrases? I think part of my problem is that I come to cadences at predictable times. What can I do harmonically to postpone a cadence and keep the resulting phrase sounding organic? I have a lot more questions, but I think that will do for now. Thanks guys!

Asymmetric faces are perhaps less beautiful, but more interesting. The same goes for my phrases. :P

http://www.youngcomposers.com/music/listen/6985/the-apotheosis-of-dantjtichener/

"Behind Bars" by Gould. 650 pages of answers to every notation question you ever wanted to ask by one of the editors at Faber. With a good index and good footnotes within the text: "for conventions in harp notation see p. 457…" that sort of thing. Just got it, and it's really helpful. It's like the Strunk and White style guide for sheet music. More of a reference book than something that you sit down and read.