Reþ's About Me And A Small RIRWICS Overview
RIRWICS Overview Section
Looking for a tool to spice up or get into music with? Feeling stuck creatively? Burned out?
Or maybe you’re just curious how to start writing music without knowing where to begin?
Check out my Reþnåär Inspiration Roadmap Without Initial Creativity System, or RIRWICS.
RIRWICS is a structured, low-pressure creative tool designed for musicians, songwriters, and composers facing creative fatigue or burnout. It is equally accessible to those with minimal or no formal musical knowledge, helping you skip the stress of starting and dive straight into writing.
Works for melody, harmony, rhythm, and form.
Includes wildcards, creative constraints, and theory hacks.
RIRWICS is structured for exploration, not perfection.
About me Section
How do you spell Reþnåär in standard latin alphabet and how do you say Reþnåär?
Reþnåär can be shortened to "Reþ". (English keyboard preferred spelling long is Rethnaar, preferred spelling shortened is Reth)
Who is Reþnåär?
Adrian J. Reþnåär Marcum is a American pseudo-obsolete instrument historian, voice actor, artist in the furry fandom, youtuber, aspiring polyglot and a classical, prog and jazz jack-of-all-trades self-taught multi-instrumentalist specializing in Pipe Organ, Piano, 6/7 string Bass Guitar, 6/7/8 string Guitar, Ukulele, partial range of Recorders (Garklein to Great bass), and Duduk. Reþ is an aspiring Archlutenist/Lutenist, Theorboist, Violist, Bombardist/Zurnaist, and Drummer. Reþnåär was born in 2004 in Minnesota. Reþnåär is currently based out of the Greater Minneapolis area.
The name Reþnåär started out as a fursona name.
The full Swedish/Icelandic/old English name is
Reþnåär Högväxtöverlägsenbarbarorvarg Viggwðmundursson.
My Niches
My niches are exploring various music genres and techniques, incorporating microtonal melodies, hyper-tuplet rhythms, and polyrhythmic compositions to create a unique auditory experience. Through my videos, I also delve into region-specific music, showcasing the beauty and richness of cultural diversity, while experimenting with microrhythmic elements like extreme swing, and half swing to push the boundaries of rhythm.
My main focuses
1: I am creating music on YouTube.
2: I am actively spearheading the formation of a band.
My band
My band Årnavøna (Or-nav-uh-na) is currently a work in progress allowing my tonal perspective to merge various musical styles with other musicians into a harmonious fusion that leaves a lasting impact on listeners. By exploring uncharted territories and blurring, occasionally following, and defying genre limitations, with this band i want to try and unite diverse musical influences, embarking on a creative odyssey to redefine the boundaries of western artistic expression and inspire a new era of sonic exploration and create a transcendent musical experience that resonates with people from all walks of life, inviting them to expand their musical horizons alongside me. With each new composition or re-harmonized cover, I strive to inspire others to embrace their own creative vision and unlock the endless possibilities of musical exploration. Ultimately, my journey in the world of music is driven by a progressive mindset, where the fusion of diverse genres enables me to carve a unique path that can redefine the contemporary music scene.
Terms of use
Please make sure to remember the following Information:"This section contains everything you need to know if you want to use any of my content. If you see anything that violates my terms, please be sure to report it to me on DISCORD. DISCORD USERNAME: rethnaarI DO ALLOW:
- My music to be used as background music in videos/streams/events/games etc. However, before doing that:
1) Please ask me first! I want to know you and the work you'll be using it on before you do so. and if you are interested in making a remix, cover, or derivative work, please update me on it as well!
2) Put a link to any of my music you used somewhere a person can view and click easily (E.g. @Rethnaar: [LINK], in a video description). If you are unable to link my works for any reason, please contact me.
- Reach out to me if you want to use other content (like voices, cover art, etc.) in your videos/streams or other creative projects.I Do not allow:
- Re-uploads/redistribution/unasked extensions/unasked mashups/unasked modifications to my work.
- Nightcore/daycore/"slowed + reverb" versions or any adaptations of the sort.
- Unasked Commercial use.
- compilations of any of my content without my permission. Contacting is a must.
- And of course, any use of my content in videos containing any form of hate speech or strong controversial topics is also prohibited and won't be accepted no matter what."Indemnification
Users are responsible for ensuring that their use of the music complies with all applicable laws and regulations. I cannot be held liable for any unauthorized or improper use of the music.Notice
I reserve the right to ask for the removal of my music from any content if the usage does not align with my terms and conditions.P.S. If you are interested in collaborating on a project on Patreon or have any specific requests regarding my music or other content, feel free to reach out to me. I'm open to exploring opportunities for collaboration and creative projects. If you have a unique idea or vision that you think my knowledge of music could enhance, I'm eager to hear about it and explore the possibilities. Let's connect and see how we can work together to bring your creative ideas to life while respecting each other's artistic contributions and intellectual property.
Where to find me
All of My links are found here, thank you for reading.
The Reþnåär Inspiration Roadmap Without Initial Creativity System:
for writing inspiration during burnout.
(RIRWICS)By Adrian J. Reþnåär Marcum
OVERVIEW & PURPOSEThe Reþnåär Inspiration Roadmap Without Initial Creativity System (RIRWICS) is a structured, low-pressure creative tool designed for musicians, songwriters, and composers facing creative fatigue or burnout. It is equally accessible to those with minimal or no formal musical knowledge. Rather than relying on unpredictable bursts of inspiration, RIRWICS provides a reliable, step-by-step framework that simplifies music theory, incorporates controlled randomness, and removes some people's burden of starting from scratch. Its aim is to help creators jump straight into the writing process.The purpose of RIRWICS is not to replace creativity, but to guide and support it, especially during times when motivation, emotional clarity, or musical confidence is low. It offers a consistent structural base that users can return to at any point, combining clarity with creative freedom. By using focused constraints as a springboard for new ideas, it encourages exploration without overwhelming the user. Whether you’re working on melodies, harmonies, rhythms, or lyrics, RIRWICS acts as a scaffold for reconnecting with the joy of musical creation.Step 1 - Choose a Number (1-8)
This will determine your root key when put together with step 2.Step 2 - Choose a Number (1-2)
This will choose the key sequence.
Option 1 = The circle of 5ths sequence (sharpward)Option 2 = The circle of 4ths sequence (flatward)For Step 2 Option 1 (Keys going up in 5ths):
1 = C♮ 2 = G♮ 3 = D♮ 4 = A♮ 5 = E♮ 6 = B♮ 7 = F# 8 = C#For Step 2 Option 2 (Keys going up in 4ths):
1 = C♮ 2 = F♮ 3 = B♭ 4 = E♭ 5 = A♭ 6 = D♭ 7 = G♭ 8 = C♭Step 3 - Choose Your Mode (Easy) (1-2)1 = Major (Δ)2 = Minor (-)Step 3 - Choose Your Mode (Hard) (1-7)1 - Ionian (Maj/Δ)2 - Dorian (Min with #6)3 - Phrygian (Min with ♭2)4 - Lydian (Maj with #4)5 - Mixolydian (Maj with ♭7)6 - Aeolian (Natural Min/-)7 - Locrian (♭2, ♭5 (*Unstable))Step 3.5 - Drone Foundation Rule (Optional)
Choose a single note, anywhere in (diatonic) or outside (non-diatonic/desafinado) your key, and use it as a drone that sustains, does not move, or simply repeats throughout a section (or the whole piece).
Droning is usually done on a bass range instrument only.For contrast, shift the drone after a few sections to introduce a new harmonic color.🧠This is great for those who want to get into modal compositions.Step 4 - Rhythm Variation (Optional)
For syncopation and odd time signatures:Add a few random numbers together (e.g., 4 + 7 = 11, or 3 + 3 + 3 + 2 = 11).Use the total to define your rhythmic grouping, for example, 11 eighth notes in a bar (e.g., 11/8).Structure your phrases using that grouping.Return to this step if the rhythm doesn’t feel right, and try a different combination.Step 5 - Choose a Song Form (1-6)
All of these can be used in 4, 8, 16, or 32 bar sections1 - AAA - Three identical sections.2 - AB - Two contrasting sections.3 - ABA - The “A section” returns after a contrasting section.4 - ABABCB - Common pop/rock form with a bridge.5 - AABA - Standard jazz/ballad form.6 - ABACADA or Rondo - A repeating “A section” with other evolving sections.Chord Density Rule (Optional Constraint)
This optional rule helps shape your harmonic texture by limiting or guiding the types of chords you use.
There are two ways to play with this:Simplicity vs. Complexity (1-2):1 = Triads Only (basic major, minor, diminished, augmented).2 = Extended Chords Allowed (7ths, 9ths, 11ths, 13ths).For Option 1 - Triads only : What does “Triads Only” mean?(For Beginners)A triad is the simplest form of a chord. It’s made of three notes:The root (the note the chord is named after).The third (which decides if the chord is major or minor).The fifth (which adds stability).Here are a few examples:G Major triad = G - B - DG Minor triad = G - B♭ - DG Diminished triad = G - B♭ - D♭G Augmented triad = G - B - D#Using only triads keeps your harmony simple, clear, and easy to manage, especially if you’re just starting out.
It’s perfect for beginners, pop music, or minimalistic compositions.🧠Tip: Stick to triads until you feel confident, then try adding 7ths or other extensions later.For Option 2 - Extension Type (1-2):
Hard Mode: Standard Extensions (1-4)1 - 7th chord (e.g., Emaj7, C#m7, B7)2 - 13th chord (e.g., Dmaj13, Bm13, A13)3 - 11th chord (e.g., Emaj11, C#m11, B11)4 - 9th chord (e.g., Dmaj9, Bm9, A9)Hard Mode: Altered Extensions (1-6)
Use these non-diatonic, altered chord tones for advanced harmonic color:
1 - #9th chord (e.g., Emaj#9, C#m#9, B#9)
2 - #13th chord (e.g., Dmaj#13, Bm#13, A#13)
3 - #11th chord (e.g., Emaj#11, C#m#11, B#11)
4 - ♭9th chord (e.g., Dmaj♭9, Bm♭9, A♭9)
5 - ♭13th chord (e.g., Dmaj♭13, Bm♭13, A♭13)
6 - ♭11th chord (e.g., Emaj♭11, C#m♭11, B♭11)Step 6 - The “Flip It” Rule (Optional)
After your first version, flip one of your original choices, such as:Major to minor change,Functional key to new functional key/mode change,Functional key to new non-functional key/mode change.Reverse the direction from Circle of 5ths to 4ths, or vice versa.Invert the song form (e.g., ABA → BAB)Then, recombine the piece with your flipped choice.Wild Card Rules, Optional Disruptions for Creative Breakthroughs.
Use these when you feel stuck, want to experiment, or just want to let go of control.1. - Non-Diatonic Chaos InjectionThe Rule:
Every 4 to 8 bars, introduce one chord or key that does not belong to your current key or mode (non-diatonic/desafinado).You can:
Try to make it flow smoothly by reharmonizing or voice leading into it.
or
Lean into the chaos and let it sound jarring, surreal, or cinematic.🧠Purpose:
This rule helps you:
Break out of overly safe harmonic patterns.Explore modulation, tension, and unexpected beauty.Practice either resolving tension or amplifying dissonance intentionally.Some Non-Diatonic Tricks You Can Try:Borrow a chord from the parallel minor or major (e.g., use an A♭ major chord or variation in C major)Use a tritone substitution (e.g., D♭ chord in place of a G chord)Jump and stay in a completely unrelated key for contrast until desired (e.g., C major → F♯ minor, C major → C# major)Use a chromatic mediant (e.g., move from C major to A major or E major)Bonus Variations:
Do this only on the chorus for contrast.Make the entire bridge section modulate every 2 bars.Repeat your wild card key later for thematic weirdness.2. - Time Signature Shift - Rhythmic SurpriseWhat to do:Midway through your piece, or at a key transitional moment, change the time signature entirely.Examples:Start in 4/4 (standard) → switch to 5/8 for angular, uneven feel6/8 to 7/4 = a disorienting groove shift4/4 → 3/4 → 6/4 → back to 4/4 for progressive or cinematic structures🧠Why this works:Creates a sense of motion, surprise, or suspense.Helps transition between emotional sections.Adds a distinct identity to bridges, instrumental breaks, or outros.🧠Beginner Tip:
Use simple groupings like 3 + 2 to count 5/8 easily."ONE-Two-Three ONE-Two” = 5/8 pulse.Advanced Twist:
Layer polyrhythms or overlays (e.g., keep 4/4 drums under a 7/8 melody) for fusion or jazz feels.3. - Melody Reversal/ Retrograde MelodyWhat to do:
Take an existing melody and play it in reverse order.This is called retrograde in classical theory.Variations:Reverse pitch order only, keep the rhythm.Reverse rhythm order only, keep the pitch.Reverse both for a total inversion of the original phrase.🧠Why this works:This gives a fresh take on your own material.Creates a sense of mirror image, reflection, or on the other side, complete jamais vu.Useful for cinematic music, experimental work, or dreamlike pieces.🧠 Beginner Tip:Use short melodic cells (2–4 bars) so reversal stays manageable.Advanced Twist:Apply reversal to only one instrument or layer, while others move forward, creating nonlinear interactions.4. - Transpose One Section Up or Down - Modulation ShockWhat to do:Pick any section (e.g., chorus, bridge, or middle) and move it up or down by a half step.Examples:Verse in C major → Chorus in C♯ major (bright jump)Bridge in D minor → Drop in D♭ minor (dark surprise)🧠Why this works:
Creates harmonic lift or fall.Gives emotional contrast.Works beautifully in ballads, rock, metal, jazz, or R&B styles.🧠Beginner Tip:
Use the same chord shapes and simply move them up/down one fret (on guitar) or one key (on piano) to transpose.Advanced Twist:Add a pivot chord or chromatic passing tones to make the modulation feel smoother.5. - Exotic Modal Shape-ShiftingWhat to do:For a specific section (4–8 bars), abandon your mode and switch to a non-Western or exotic scale.
Example Scales | Sound/Feel | Example Use Case |
---|---|---|
Whole Tone | Dreamy, floating, surreal. | Sci-fi, ambient, avant-garde. |
Octatonic | Symmetrical, tense. | Horror, dark jazz, noir scores. |
Hungarian Minor | Exotic, tense, folk-dramatic. | Balkan, Romani, or fantasy styles |
Japanese In scale (陰) | Pentatonic, sharp, perfect fourth. | Traditional or minimalist fusion. |
Japanese Hirajōshi scale (平調子) | Pentatonic, sharp, perfect fifth. | Traditional or minimalist fusion. |
🧠Why this works:Creates dramatic modal contrast.Adds cultural or cinematic depth.Makes sections stand out and feel transformative.Beginner Tip:Pick one note as your new tonal center and build a 5-note scale around it (pentatonic approach).Advanced Twist:Use a foreign scale as a modulation bridge between two diatonic sections.6. - "Recycle a Mistake" Rule
This is a powerful creative philosophy that I will set as a rule.Take a mistake you may have made during composition and build a motif or structure around it.When you make a mistake, whether it’s the wrong chord, a clashing note, a misplaced rhythm, or even a DAW automation error, don’t delete it right away. Instead, ask yourself: “What happens if I treat this as intentional?”Use the mistake as a motif, hook, or departure point for a new section.
Mistake Type | How to Recycle It |
---|---|
Wrong chord | Make it a pivot chord that leads to a new key. |
Out-of-sync note | Build a polyrhythm or syncopated groove around it. |
Clashing melody note | Repeat it as a tension motif, or resolve it creatively. |
DAW glitch | Sample it, reverse it, or loop it as a texture layer. |
Voice crack (vocals) | Make it an emotional moment, lean into it, not away. |
🧠Many great pieces have come from what can be seen in the moment as hideous accidents. Make your errors part of your identity.Return to this system whenever you need direction, disruption, or just a spark.
Over time, you may find your own personal rituals and favorite pathways within it.Thank you for checking this out.
Stay curious. Stay ever-creating.- Adrian J. Reþnåär Marcum -
↓ ↓ The return link is below ↓ ↓
Where to find me
All of My links are found here, thank you for reading.