Orchestation

Hello all - I am trying to write a composition that follows these guidelines. I have a basic motif already, and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on how to proceed. I've never written for this exact ensemble before (2 violins, 1 viola, flute, and clarinet) and I'm aiming for a 3.5-4 minute piece. Are there any formulas that might help, or anything orchestration-related that you might suggest?

Hi @GospelPiano12!

The main problem with this arrangement that I can see is not anything to do with the harmony or instrumentation but more with the rhythmic structure of your melody.  It doesn't sound smooth and streamlined into the simplest, most easily comprehendible, lucid and easy to remember rhythmic form.  There are many illogical rhythms in the melody that don't sound natural and sometimes (for example) put a note that shouldn't be stressed on a strong beat.  This also makes the melody sound like it's lilting and not flowing easily, with random pauses everywhere.  That's why I still maintain that my version (transcription) of your melody that I made here:

is still more logical and easier for the listener to understand, rhythmically than yours is.  The C in the 2nd measure sounds like it should be an on-the-beat note, but you have it off the beat, which is really confusing.  That's why I perceive your version of the melody in this orchestration as being a very poor rhythmic rendition of what I think are your musical intentions.  Thanks for sharing.

I completely agree @PeterthePapercomPoser

I hadn't posted it, but this was actually my final notation for the main motif.

I would love to get your feedback and guidance as I work towards finishing this piece.

I am currently in the process of writing out 7 "variations" or alterations to the melody - inversion, augmentation, diminution, ornamentation, a retrograde, and 2 complimentary, but very different phrases that I can draw from and add to the piece. It's been a while since I learned these concepts in theory, so I would really appreciate a refresher (or a walkthrough) of some of these if anyone doesn't mind helping me out.