Resource for understanding how to compose a nocturne?

[k589]

I love this format of piano music, and would love to understand more of how to write my own compositions. Is there anything out there, e.g. a theory book, that could help me construct a composition?

[prestoconfuocco]

Are you speaking of piano music in general, or just a nocturne?
There are many piano generes, but some of the basic ones can be learned. (Sonata, waltz, etc.)
A nocturne is usually based on the A-B-A structure, but it can also come in rondo or variation form, or any other form. (It doesn't have a specific structure, so you can't leran it in any theory book.)
I think you should just listen to some nocturnes, go to the piano, and play whatever comes out. After some practice you'll know exactly how to compose.

[awesom_o]

How much music theory have you studied?

Would you be able to analyze a Chopin Nocturne, with chord symbols and non-chord notes all labeled correctly?

[k589]

How much music theory have you studied?

Would you be able to analyze a Chopin Nocturne, with chord symbols and non-chord notes all labeled correctly?

I can identify those things, and I understand the principles behind chords and the different types (albeit to a short extent), but I couldn't properly label them. I think analyzing some of his music would be of great help; how do you suppose it would be good to go about learning how to assess the finer parts of his composition?

[awesom_o]

Good. Don't sweat it with the paper analysis. Play lots of great music and try and study carefully what it is that makes it so good.

For me, the best piano music contains a seamless mixture of marvelous complexity and utter simplicity. It is as though you are looking at both complexity and simplicity through a sort of kaleidoscopic lens.

You must not expect to write great music with a preconceived idea of form already existing in your mind. Try to enjoy your musical ideas, and develop them as well, preferably both at the same time. But you must wait and see where that development leads you. You can't force it. A piece of music is like a living creature which you fashion under your hands. It takes a huge investment of time and energy. You have to help it grow.

The finest pieces are wonderful creatures; living entities of musical thought which will last forever. They are fully alive in the moment of performance, and filled with movement. The composer breathed life into the creature's every move.

Do you improvise?

[awesom_o]

This is one of my pieces. It's not that nocturnal, but it is slightly.

https://vimeo.com/74077435