Q. What are some basic ways to develop a motif in composition?
A. Broadly, there are three ways: using smaller note values in your existing motif e.g. crotchets to quavers; adding ornaments/decorations e.g. trills, mordents, grace notes or just extra notes to fill an interval - this adds character and keeps the listener interested; adding more complex rhythmic patterns to the music, but having the melody accented inbetween (also termed 'voice-leading').
ES
Related Music A Level answers
All answers ▸Illustrate ways in which an accompaniment can contribute to the interpretation of the text in a Lied. Answer with reference to the music of at least two composers.
What are chord inversions?
When and where should I modulate in a Bach Chorale harmonisation?
Discuss how this piece (Brahms Piano Quintet in F minor mvt. III 'Scherzo') is characteristic of 19th century chamber music.