How To Use "Show, Don't Tell" In Your Music

The video tutorial explains the 'show, don't tell' principle, commonly used in film, and its application in music composition. It emphasizes expressing musical gestures through orchestration rather than relying solely on dynamic markings. The tutorial provides an example using a SATB choir, demonstrating how to build a musical phrase by adding voices and expanding range. It highlights the importance of writing gestures directly into orchestration for clearer expression and discusses the transferability of these skills across different music genres.

What does the principle of 'show, don't tell' mean in the context of composition?

Describe the process of building a musical gesture incrementally in a composition.

How can a composer effectively convey emotions through orchestration rather than just dynamic markings?

In what ways can the technique of 'showing' be applied across different genres of music?

What are the two key questions a composer should ask when defining a musical gesture?