I started by randomly assigning numbers to the different figures in the image (see picture that I posted with this track on SoundCloud). Repeat figures received the same number.
Then I figured out which notes corresponded to the numbers based on a C Minor scale. The two half figures were the only notes outside of the scale.
From there I worked out a tempo and rhythm for the melody. There’s some repetition and a little bit of smoothing, but basically it’s as written, with some variations toward the end.
The melody starts out in 3/4 to honor the waltz idea, but then organically changed into 4/4 part way through.
I thought the melody would sound good on a cello, but not having a cellist available, I found a sample that had a bowed-like quality to it instead.

https://soundcloud.com/alt-formant/hold-me-disquiet0247

2 Likes