How might a composer create program music?

A composer can effectively create program music by including a suggestive title or basing the piece on a poem. Program music is designed to evoke a specific idea, story, or scene through instrumental composition. The use of a title that hints at the narrative or thematic content helps listeners to form a mental image or emotional response related to that specific concept. Additionally, drawing inspiration from literature, such as a poem, provides a narrative framework that guides the composition and informs the musical choices—like melody, rhythm, and instrumentation—that convey the intended imagery or emotions. This approach allows the audience to connect with the music on a deeper level, as they can visualize the story or themes the composer intended to portray.

In contrast, relying solely on traditional harmonies does not inherently convey a narrative or programmatic element, and avoiding orchestral instruments limits the sonic palette typically associated with program music. Additionally, focusing on abstract themes tends to lead towards absolute music, which emphasizes musical form and structure over explicit storytelling elements.