Non-Standard Notation Composition
Your task is to take a mood/idea (one already provided, or choose your own) and compose a piece using non-standard
notation that, when played, recreates that mood/idea through music. Your composition MUST:
 indicate at least TWO different pitches for woodwinds
 indicate at least TWO different pitches for brass
 indicate at least TWO different parts/rhythms/pitches for percussion
 have at least TWO different conductor cues and/or timing indicators
With your composition, you will submit a BRIEF explanation of your piece that details the mood/idea you were trying to
capture and which elements of music you considered in creating your piece so that it would reflect that mood/idea.
Think of each element of music (pitch, duration, timbre, form, texture, dynamics) and decide how you can notate it so
that your performers can understand your intentions. Suggestions include:
 Pitch – ascending/descending notes, chords
 Duration – long notes, short notes, rhythms together, or random
 Timbre –instrumentation, articulations
 Form – separate sections
 Texture –multiple instruments playing at same time, smaller groups of instruments playing separately
 Dynamics – add dynamics to build suspense, make it sad, make it triumphant
Curriculum Expectations
C1.2 apply the elements of music through composing, and arranging music for a specific effect or clear purpose
C1.3 create musical compositions in a variety of forms for specific purposes and audiences
C1.5 demonstrate an understanding of non-standard notation through composition
Success Criteria
-meet all assignment criteria (top)
-you’ve considered at least three elements
-explanation is submitted with composition AND uses CLEAR LANGUAGE to highlight the elements you considered and
how your final composition reflects those elements
-notation symbols used are easily understood by other musicians
-intent of composition is clear (audience can HEAR your idea/mood)
-submit on time