Glossary / Lexicon

Melody schema refers to a representation of a familiar melody that is stored in a person"s memory. Existence of a melody schema makes it more likely that the tones associated with a melody will be perceptually grouped.

In the psychology context, a melody schema refers to a mental representation of a typical or prototypical melody that is stored in a person's long-term memory. It is believed that these schemas help individuals recognize and predict the patterns and structures of melodies they hear.

Melody schemas can vary depending on cultural and personal factors, but they generally follow certain patterns or structures that are common in the music of a particular genre or era. Here are a few examples of common melody schemas:

1. The "Twinkle, Twinkle" Schema: This is a simple melody schema that is often used in children's songs and nursery rhymes. It follows a basic ascending and descending pattern and can be represented by the following notes: C-C-G-G-A-A-G.

2. The "Ode to Joy" Schema: This is a well-known melody schema that is used in Ludwig van Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. It follows a pattern of rising and falling notes and can be represented by the following notes: E-E-F-G-G-F-E-D-C-C-D-E-E-D-D.

3. The "Happy Birthday" Schema: This is a common melody schema used in the song "Happy Birthday to You." It follows a pattern of rising and falling notes and can be represented by the following notes: C-C-D-C-F-E.

4. The "Greensleeves" Schema: This is a traditional melody schema that has been used in many folk songs and Christmas carols. It follows a pattern of rising and falling notes and can be represented by the following notes: E-D-C-D-E-E-E-D-C-D-E-D-C.

5. The "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" Schema: This is a popular melody schema used in the song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" from The Wizard of Oz. It follows a pattern of rising and falling notes and can be represented by the following notes: C-B-A-F-G-A-B-C.