(Very Incomplete) String Quartet Movement

Hi Guys,

I'm working on a string quartet, and I have got the start of a first movement going. I have kinds of a got a first theme coming along, but I'm stuck on what to do next. 

Please help me!

Yours Faithfully,

Expert21

First, the viola should never get below the C. It's unplayable below it, but you make it crawls deep to a G!

Will you try to finish the harmonic cycle of tonic-predominant-dominiant-tonic first to see what will happen next?Sometimes you have to work on your present material fully to have a new idea or inspiration! For example giving a binary structure for this opening? I think motivically, the theme in viola (even though it's out of range) and the rising 6th figure in the violins can be used. I don't think the present stage these materials can be called a first theme. Maybe you can try to develop it first base on those two materials and then try to find other materials to provide contrast!

I think the section presented now can act as a good introduction, but not as a first theme itself, though it can provide seeds for later development! Keep trying and composing and I am sure you can find your own way to solve the problem!!

Hey Henry, 

First of all, thanks for the feedback.  I really appreciate it, and it has helped solve the problem.

Secondly, I have attached what I have done below. I have expanded the melody, and I think I have got a first theme. I've also done some tweaking with the dynamics and slurs. Please forgive the lack of accompaniment.

Yours faithfully,

Expert21

Seems like you're almost done writing the theme. Maybe give it a final cadence for the last few bars to return to the home chord?

Also, are the melody notes supposed to be tied in bars 8, 12, and 16? The score says so, but the midi plays an eighth note. 

First, any progress will be good!

The viola is now in range! I would suggest to change the cello accompaniment of bar 2 to a G and bar 10 to an A to prevent parallel octaves. The harmony of bar 10 will be better in dominant of D minor to have a c sharp. Bar 12 is now in the dominant 7th of C, so the notes of viola and cello can be substituted with a D and a B. I will try to finish the cadence firsr to start the next presenation of materials! The dynamics is detailed enough. Keep composing and you will find a wat through!