Study Plate XXVI and the scores of Debussy for further illustration of “pointillistic” techniques. Write a page of score
which employs this technique. Use points of clear, unmixed tone color; have them enter rapidly and briefly. Locate each entry of new timbre in a non-competing pitch locale. Some supporting motion of a delicate continuing sort may be added. For this project it will be advisable to write in full score, since “pointillistic” tone-mixing demands such constant shifting to fresh tone color. It is best to have a large palette of orchestral color before the imagination, to ensure a variety of resources.
To supplement the study of Debussy scores, French impressionist paintings might also be studied and analyzed. This will heighten an understanding of the relationship of “pointillism” in orchestration to “pointillism” in painting.
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