85.129Apply it to “Happy Birthday”

Because the melody is public domain, build a miniature concert arrangement.

Intro

Take:

G-G-A-G

and abstract only its rhythm/contour.

Do not state the entire first phrase yet.

First statement

Simple melody + bass.

Interlude

Turn the opening rhythmic idea into a C pedal sequence.

Second statement

Richer reharmonization.

Phrase 3: biggest orchestration.

Tag

Repeat:

F-F-E-C-D-C

or a fragment of the final phrase, varying harmony/register.

Coda

Return to the intro's tiny motif.

Final:

C6/9.

Now even a tiny familiar tune has large-form architecture.