Don't Be Afraid
Andrew Cornwell
MCP Jan 2012

This song started out as nothing more than an attempt to create a slow rock tune to stretch my boundaries as a composer.  Seeing as how I typically stick to electronic dance music or chamber music I wanted to try something else.  Needless to say, it took a bit to find the proper inspiration for the song.  After listening to countless slow rock jams and Elton John tracks I happened across one simple motif: love.  In that instant I knew all that I needed to in order to create a song.  That inspiration for me is the love I have for my son, Cole.  I want to write a theme that conveys my feelings about protecting him from the often-cold world.  I want to express to him, through song, that with me around to raise him he will never have anything to fear.

1)	In rehearsal mark F the accompaniment switches to straight quarter notes block chords.  I did this in order to create a sense of climax for the piece.  However, every time I listen to it, it still seems bland.  How can I create motion while still conveying the grand block chord feel?
2)	In the A sections (rehearsal marks A, C, F)I found that I was rather fond of the bass articulations in the to give it rhythmic interest rather than having it go all over the place with notes.  I would like to know if this creates the sense of rhythmic interest that I was going for or if it would be more interesting to have more tones.
3)	 Dynamically, my intention for this piece is for it to essentially be a long crescendo.  I want to know if this is conveyed well, and if not where would you suggest adding diminuendos to strengthen this effect?
4)	Measure 37 and 38’s right hand accompaniment has a stepwise effect.  I feel like this works but also have an idea for a syncopated pattern to give it more independence from the lead. My worry is that this will detract from the melody, which is supposed to be flowing.  Would a syncopated pattern in the accompaniment take too much away from the melody?

Cornwell Andrew Final Rough

Andrew Cornwell
Final Project, Final Version
MPR January 2012


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