Back to alphabetical overview – click here
An arrangement is a version of a piece of music that has been adapted for a particular group of instruments or voices. It determines how the melody, harmony and rhythm are distributed throughout the performance.
What is a musical arrangement?
An arrangement starts with an existing piece of music, often consisting of a melody and chord progression, and develops it into a complete musical performance. The arranger decides which instruments play each part, how the chords are voiced and how the song is structured with sections such as the intro, verse, chorus and bridge.
A good arrangement supports the mood of the music while giving each instrument or voice its own role in the overall sound.
How is arrangement used in piano playing?
Whenever you play from a lead sheet, you are creating your own piano arrangement. You decide how to play the bass with your left hand, how to voice the chords with your right hand and how to support the melody.
Learning the principles of arranging helps piano players create more interesting accompaniments, richer solo performances and more personal interpretations of familiar songs.