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How do I choose a second instrument?

Choosing a second instrument can be tricky as several things have to be taken into account.

I am currently writing a document on the subject, that I will share with you as soon as possible. The main thing to keep in mind is the reason why you want to buy a second instrument:

• If you are looking for instrument B to extend the scale of instrument A, then A and B must have compatible scales (for example, Dm and F). Take note: instrument B will not have the notes that are not found on instrument A; it will have the same notes as instrument A but they will be higher or lower (you are "extending the scale").

• If you are looking for chromaticism you will need to find an instrument that has as many of the missing notes of instrument A as possible. Take note: you may end up with 2 instruments A and B that have the same scale, but one scale will be a semi-tone higher or lower than the other. Both instruments will have the same range.

• You might find yourself between the two cases above: you are looking for instrument B that has different notes to instrument A, which will help to change the key. This is closer to chromaticism, but will offer a second instrument (B) that presents a different range to instrument A.

These 3 points are briefly summarized here but cover various notions that I will fully expand on in my finished document coming out soon.

Good luck with your research!

Updated on: 26/10/2018

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