Acoustic and MIDI Orchestration for the Contemporary Composer, 2nd Edition

2 Writing and Sequencing for the Rhythm Section

 

 

 

2.1 Introduction: General Characteristics

The rhythm section is the foundation of most contemporary popular music productions. In more-traditional ensembles (orchestra or band), rhythmic momentum is usually supplied through melodic counterpoint along with various harmonic accompaniment patterns heard in the strings and winds. The percussion section in such ensembles is usually less active, supplying more of a color with an occasional rhythmic, perpetual motion for reinforcement when desired. The marching band is perhaps the earliest example of the relationship changing significantly between the rhythm section and the winds (and strings). Here, the percussion section supplies a continuum ...