How to Harmonise a Chorale in the Style of Bach

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Understand how a chorale works.

   Chorale melodies were sung by a congregation in Lutheran churches in parts of Germany.
   
   The melodies are recognisable, and are divided into phrases, which are identified by pause marks.
   
   These marks indicate where you should put your cadences.
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   Step 2: Look at accidentals.

   Find the key of the piece and other parts to distinguish possible points of modulation (you will want to modulate at least 2-3 in your chorale) , This will normally be a perfect authentic cadence (V-I with both chords in root position), though one shouldn't rule out the possibility of plagal (IV-I) cadences though this is extremely rare. , Each chord must contain the root (which is often doubled), the third and the fifth. , They should fit into the chorale melody, and have logical chord progressions.
   
   Most chorales have similar cadential progressions.
   
   The best progressions could include a cycle of fifths (vi-ii7b-V7-I), or a cadential 6-4 ((ii7b)-Ic-V7-I). , Remember that these must all be prepared and resolved. (Although a 7th does not have to be prepared it it falls on the second quaver of a beat.) Also add in any passing notes, anticipation notes and echappe notes that you can.
   
   These add more style and sophistication to the chorale. , Bach occasionally used parallel 5ths or octaves, but they are rare and hidden with the skill of an expert.
   
   Also, check that the Alto part does not go higher than the Soprano part in any chords, and same with Tenor and Alto and Bass and Tenor. , If there are any chords that sound dissonant or wrong then rework them.
   
   This may affect other chords near it so double check for fifths or octaves again.
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   Step 3: Start by harmonizing the final cadence.

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   Step 4: Look through the rest of the part you have to harmonize

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   Step 5: work out possible chords

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   Step 6: and lightly pencil them in

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   Step 7: starting with the cadences

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   Step 8: and then move on to the remaining chords.

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   Step 9: Fill in the rest of the chords.

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    Step 10: Go through and try to put in any suspensions (the most common are 4-3 in the Alto at a cadence and a 7-6 in the Tenor in the middle) and dissonances such as 7ths.

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    Step 11: Go through and check all pairs of voices making sure that the two parts never move up or down in perfect fifths

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    Step 12: octaves

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    Step 13: or in unison.

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    Step 14: Play it (or get someone to play it for you) on a piano and listen carefully.

Detailed Guide

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