MUSICAL COMPOSITION

32 MUSICAL COMPOSITIONsmall things will the more readily adapt itself to preservingproper balance in the design of larger conceptions.But as without contrapuntal technique it isimpossible to progress in combining and enrichingmelodies, so without working through the initial stagesof rhythm of phrase it is impossible to obtain a suregrasp of the principles of form. For the purposes ofthis book it will be more convenient and less hamperingto the student to discuss the aspects and bearingsof form after the initial stages of free composition havebeen entered upon, as it has to do with its largerdevelopments; the sense of proportion which will havebeen gained by the study of rhythmical phrasing issufficient, up to a certain point, in keeping the composerin the straight path of progress. As he ascends thesmaller hills of invention his horizon will widen ofitself, and he will gain the experience necessary toattack the snow peaks with a sense of security whichwill enable him to face with confidence the dangersand difficulties which lie in the path to their summits.