Kinds Of Motion

Overview

In music theory, understanding the various kinds of motion in a musical passage is crucial for grasping the harmonic relationships between different chords. Motion refers to the movement of individual voices within a chord progression, and there are four main types of motion: parallel, similar, contrary, and oblique.


Parallel Motion: This occurs when two or more voices move in the same direction by the same interval. In harmonization, parallel motion between voices is generally avoided, especially in traditional four-part writing, as it can lead to a loss of independence and voice leading within the harmony.


Similar Motion: Similar motion happens when two voices move in the same direction but by different intervals. While similar motion can be used to create smooth transitions between chords, maintaining a balance between similar and contrasting motions is essential for a harmonically rich composition.


Contrary Motion: Contrary motion involves voices moving in opposite directions. This type of motion is highly valued in harmony as it often leads to strong harmonic resolutions and creates a sense of tension and release within the musical passage. Contrary motion is particularly effective in creating harmonic interest and depth.


Oblique Motion: Oblique motion occurs when one voice remains stationary while the other voice or voices move up or down. This type of motion provides stability and creates a sense of continuity in the harmonic progression, serving as a grounding force amidst more active movements in other voices.

Understanding and effectively utilizing these types of motion is essential for creating coherent and engaging harmonic progressions. By identifying and analyzing the motion within a musical passage, candidates will be able to enhance their ability to harmonize melodies, create compelling chord progressions, and develop a deeper understanding of the relationships between chords in a key. Candidates should be able to identify the various kinds of motion in a musical passage to enhance their skills in harmonization and composition.

Objectives

  1. Identify the Various Kinds of Motion in a Musical Passage
  2. Master the Dominant 7th Chord in Root Position in Musical Compositions
  3. Understand and Differentiate Between Parallel Motion, Similar Motion, Contrary Motion, and Oblique Motion in Music
  4. Develop Basic Chord Progressions in Four Parts Vocal Style (SATB) in Major Keys with Not Exceeding Two Sharps and Two Flats
  5. Apply the Concept of Motion in Analyzing and Creating Musical Compositions
  6. Demonstrate Proficiency in Recognizing and Utilizing Primary and Secondary Triads in Major Keys
  7. Apply Theoretical Knowledge of Motion to Enhance Musical Performances and Arrangements

Lesson Note

In the realm of music theory, motion refers to the movement of notes or voices from one pitch to another within a composition. Understanding the various kinds of motion can significantly enhance your ability to analyze and create musical pieces. This knowledge is essential for composers, arrangers, and performers alike.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Kinds Of Motion. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. Identify the type of motion described in the following musical excerpt: A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: C. Contrary motion
  2. In a musical passage where two voices move in the same direction but by different distances, what type of motion is being displayed? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: A. Parallel motion
  3. What type of motion occurs when two voices move in opposite directions in a musical passage? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: C. Contrary motion
  4. When one voice remains on the same pitch while the other moves, what kind of motion is happening? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: D. Oblique motion
  5. In a musical piece where two voices move in the same direction and the same interval, what type of motion is being exhibited? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: B. Similar motion
  6. Which type of motion involves two voices moving in the same direction but by different intervals? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: A. Parallel motion
  7. When two voices move in opposite directions but by the same interval in a musical passage, what kind of motion is taking place? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: B. Similar motion
  8. Identify the type of motion when two voices remain on the same pitches throughout a musical phrase. A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: D. Oblique motion
  9. If two voices move in opposite directions but by different intervals, what type of motion is being demonstrated? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: C. Contrary motion
  10. When two voices move in the same direction but by the same interval in a musical passage, what type of motion is occurring? A. Parallel motion B. Similar motion C. Contrary motion D. Oblique motion Answer: B. Similar motion

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Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Kinds Of Motion from previous years

Question 1 Report


The passage above, the treble and the alto are moving in


Practice a number of Kinds Of Motion past questions