Can I have two different instruments play the same melody at the same octave?

Question

I am writing an orchestral track and so far I have written the melody of strings (violins and such) and I want to add trumpets and here are 3 things I consider. 1) Have the trumpets play the same melody as the violins at the exact same octave, is there any reason I should consider this? 2) Have the trumpets play a counter melody to the violins, 3) Have the trumpets play the same melody of the violins an octave apart. Does 1 sound good at all? Which of the above generally will give the best result?

Answer 1

Greetings!

As I get deeper into studying orchestration and arranging, one thing to always consider are the group of questions you are asking.

To be direct, here are my thoughts on each:

1) This is a very viable option. Having the trumpets play the exact same melody in the same register as the violins is a very viable option and can be very effective and beautiful. The only things to consider are the range of where the trumpets and violin are playing and how to make sure they blend. The trumpets could easily outplay the violins. Make sure you know who is playing, if possible, and try to write the parts based on the ensemble members.

2) The concept of contrapuntal melodies against the melody is also a great option. This can allow for great interest, especially if you have already stated the main melody once. Just be careful, as the counterpoint could take away from the melody if not done well. This could also be done with other instruments like the hons or even other woodwind instruments. Again, it all depends on the timbre of the ranges you will be writing for.

3) Similar to 1, this is also a very viable option. This could also work, but make sure you know the timbre of the ranges. Also, take into account if the trumpets have played before the given passage where they will interact with the violins.

Ultimately, it is a matter of:

--taste;

--what sounds best, especially if it's for the full song/piece or for a certain section;

--what has happened before the given section and what will happen after;

--the timbre of where the violins are and where the trumpets could be (i.e. higher, more brash but soaring notes)

That being said, it might be best to at least try #3. That sounds like a great option, as they share the melody but the octave difference will allow for some more colors. The counterpoint might best be suited for instruments more in the alto or lower soprano range.

Hope this helps!

~Christian