The vast majority of arrangements orient around the same key structure…

So, what is arranging exactly? It’s not just about what elements are in play, but also the relationships between the constituent parts. You could also think of it as being the bridge between composition and mixing. While different genres have different sonic tropes and arrangement norms, there are numerous universal constants that are beneficial to get your head around.

The most common problem that we tend to face comes when we’re so far into the writing or production of a track is that we can’t hear how jarring many of the elements might be upon another listener’s first listen. We’ve heard our mix constantly already, and we’re too comfortable with it. Often we just can’t resist the impulse to add more. It’s a solid idea to hold off on the arrangement process until after you’ve had your initial writing sessions (something which was standard practice back in the heyday of studio-based recording). Genre dictates many of the arrangement norms, and here are some typical approaches to avoid getting stuck. 

Rhythm section

In dance music, the beat is core. In upbeat, clubangled fare, the kick drum should form a central underpinning throb to the arrangement, while the beat should be augmented at various intervals with further rhythmic information that builds energy as the track progresses. If you’re writing to get people moving as an objective, the tempo and energy of the kit should be the primary section to focus on. The low end should work in tandem with this pulse of the kick, and not wander too far off on its own flight of fancy. In contrast, the writing of rock, pop and more melodically-oriented music usually begins with a harmonic or melodic part first, with the rhythm coming later.