I’m a pop producer, looking to get into film scoring. I’ve recently started taking composition and harmony classes online.

I was aware of the concept of voice leading but only to the extent of : ‘Try and move into the next chord with minimum movement’ - Use common tones

Now Ive been introduced to the concept of SATB and each line having its own melody.

There are certain rules for resolving non chord tones in each melody.

Is this only for orchestral writing ? Stuff that has a lot of countermelodies?

I’m quite confused as I’m not sure how to use this for songwriting and pop music.

Songs generally have a leading vocal melody and chords in the background.

I can use voice leading to make those chords smoother. But does each voice have to have its own melody?

Also is the vocal melody a part of the SATB? Or is that just for the chords? I’m quite confused 😅

Shall I make a clear distinction when writing orchestral music ( for film score) and pop music and use relevant music theory accordingly?

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