Chords

Aperçu

Elementary Harmony introduces students to the fundamental concepts of chords in music theory. Chords are the building blocks of harmony and provide the essential accompaniment or harmonic support to melodies. The study of chords enhances one's understanding of the vertical structure of music, complementing the linear perspective offered by melody.

One of the key objectives of this course material is to enable students to determine the basic chord progressions present in a music passage. Understanding chord progressions is crucial as they form the harmonic framework on which musical compositions are built. Students will learn about the diatonic chords found in major keys, including the primary and secondary triads.

In major keys, the primary triads consist of the tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V) chords. These chords serve as the foundation for many musical compositions and are essential for creating a sense of tonal stability and resolution. Students will explore the unique characteristics of each primary triad and how they contribute to the overall harmonic structure.

Moving beyond the primary triads, students will also delve into the realm of secondary triads. These chords, such as the supertonic (ii), mediant (iii), and leading-tone (vii°) chords, add depth and color to harmonic progressions. Understanding the roles and functions of secondary triads enhances students' ability to analyze and interpret diverse musical works.

Another important aspect covered in this course material is the exploration of basic chord progressions. By studying common chord sequences such as the I-IV-V-I cadence, students will grasp the conventions and patterns prevalent in Western tonal music. Recognizing and internalizing these progressions equips students with the tools to analyze and compose music effectively.

Additionally, the course material delves into the four-part vocal style (SATB) in major keys with no more than two sharps or flats. By examining how different chord voicings interact within a choral setting, students gain insights into part-writing techniques and harmonic balance. This hands-on approach to harmony fosters practical skills in both analysis and performance.

Lastly, students will encounter the dominant 7th chord in root position as a pivotal harmonic element. The dominant 7th chord's distinctive sound and tension-resolving properties make it a cornerstone of functional harmony. By studying its construction and resolution tendencies, students deepen their understanding of harmonic progressions and cadences.

Objectifs

  1. Identify Secondary Triads in Major Keys
  2. Understand Dominant 7th Chord in Root Position
  3. Identify Primary Triads in Major Keys
  4. Recognize Basic Chord Progressions in Four Parts Vocal Style (SATB) in Major Keys Not Exceeding Two Sharps and Two Flats

Note de cours

Chords are the building blocks of music. They are created when two or more notes are played simultaneously. Most music, especially Western music, is based on the use of chords. Understanding chords and how they function within a key is essential for any musician, whether they are performing, composing, or simply studying music theory.

Évaluation de la leçon

Félicitations, vous avez terminé la leçon sur Chords. Maintenant que vous avez exploré le concepts et idées clés, il est temps de mettre vos connaissances à lépreuve. Cette section propose une variété de pratiques des questions conçues pour renforcer votre compréhension et vous aider à évaluer votre compréhension de la matière.

Vous rencontrerez un mélange de types de questions, y compris des questions à choix multiple, des questions à réponse courte et des questions de rédaction. Chaque question est soigneusement conçue pour évaluer différents aspects de vos connaissances et de vos compétences en pensée critique.

Utilisez cette section d'évaluation comme une occasion de renforcer votre compréhension du sujet et d'identifier les domaines où vous pourriez avoir besoin d'étudier davantage. Ne soyez pas découragé par les défis que vous rencontrez ; considérez-les plutôt comme des opportunités de croissance et d'amélioration.

  1. Identify the primary triad in the key of C major. A. C major B. D minor C. E minor D. F major Answer: A. C major
  2. Identify the secondary triad in the key of G major. A. A minor B. B diminished C. C major D. D minor Answer: D. D minor
  3. Which chord progression is commonly known as the "authentic cadence"? A. I - IV B. IV - V C. V - I D. V - IV Answer: C. V - I
  4. What is the dominant 7th chord in the key of F major? A. F major 7 B. G minor 7 C. A minor 7 D. C dominant 7 Answer: D. C dominant 7
  5. In a SATB vocal style in the key of A major, which note is the leading tone? A. A B. C# C. E D. G# Answer: B. C#
  6. Which chord is built on the second degree of the A major scale? A. B diminished B. C# minor C. E major D. G# minor Answer: A. B diminished
  7. In a chord progression in the key of D major, what is the subdominant chord? A. D major B. G major C. A major D. E major Answer: B. G major
  8. In the key of E major, which chord serves as the supertonic? A. F# minor B. G# minor C. A major D. B major Answer: A. F# minor
  9. Which chord symbol represents a dominant 7th chord in root position? A. V7 B. IV7 C. II7 D. VI7 Answer: A. V7

Livres recommandés

Harmony and Voice Leading
Harmony and Voice Leading
Sous-titre The Complete Series
Éditeur Pearson
Année 2010
ISBN 978-0205250089
Music Theory for Dummies
Music Theory for Dummies
Sous-titre 4th Edition
Éditeur For Dummies
Année 2020
ISBN 978-1119674087