Step 1 - View an Example First, let's look at an example of a simple composition that uses serialism techniques.

Line 1: Here are the pitches of the chromatic scale that will be used in this piece.

Line 2: The pitches have been placed in a specific order to create a tone row. Notice that each pitch is used only once and never repeated.

Line 3: The actual composition is created by using the notes from the tone row in their proper order and adding rhythm and rests.

Line 4: The tone row starts over at the end of the first measure in this line.

Step 2 - Prepare Your Manuscript
Before you begin writing music, you'll need to prepare your manuscript.

1. Open the Noteflight document: Serialism (Composer Name).

2. Type your name over the "Composer name" spot.

3. Choose a creative title for your work and type over the "Serialism" title. You may change this title later after you've finished your composition.

4. Save your file. (File menu / Save)

Step 3 - Create a Tone Row
Now, it's time to create your tone row.

1. Using each pitch from the chromatic scale only once, create a tone row on line 2.

You will click and drag to move each note. Leave the rhythm as quarter notes for now.
Click a note and press # (sharp) on the menu that pops up to make a note sharp.
Step 4 - Arrange the Music
Since your tone row is done, you're ready to write the actual music.

1. Copy your tone row to line 3 one note at a time and start adding rhythm in any pattern you like.

Click a note and choose the desired rhythm on the pop-up menu—quarter, half, whole note, etc.
Hint: If you make the rhythm pattern shorter than 12 notes, you'll have a more interesting piece.
2. Continue repeating your rhythm pattern and tone row until you've gone through at least 3 repetitions of your tone row.

Always use your pitches in the correct pattern.
Always use your rhythm in the correct pattern.
Step 5 - Analyze Your Composition
Now the hard work is done. Sit back and enjoy listening to your composition!

1. Listen to your piece by clicking the play button at the bottom left corner of your screen.

2. Give your work a more creative title, if you would like to.

Step 6 - Respond to Your Composition
Since you've just created an original piece of classical music, you should respond to it.

1. (Paragraph)
In a paragraph of no less than 125 words, give your response to the piece you just wrote.

What do you think of the music you just created?
Do you like your piece? Why or why not?
How did you like using the serialism process?