harmonic progression

Harmonic Progression Determines the shape of a composition.

A good harmonic progression has a purpose or goal.

Root RelationshipsROOT

1) Relationship to the key (tonality)

not BASS

Ex: V sounds dominant

2) Relationship of interval between rootsEx: I – IV is a 4th , ii – V is a 4th, V – I is a 5th

Circle Progression

Minor: First five then skip across

Major: First two then skip across

Circle Progression

Major: First two then skip across

Circle Progression Minor: First five then skip across

Common Shortened Circle Progressions

Circle Progressions occur with greater profusion near a cadence.

Half Cadence makes you expect tonic because it is a circle progression.

Other ProgressionsBackwards Circle - Ascending 5ths,

Descending 4ths Purpose is relief from motion towards tonic

Ascending Seconds -

Most common: I – IV – V – I

Purpose is to switch from one circle progression to the next circle progression

Other ProgressionsDescending 3rds - Purpose is to move away from

tonic.

Dominant Function ChordsV The real Slim Shady.

vii° Dominant function, vii° I

I64 Dominant function, V I I6

4

Repeated Chords = No progression

Harmonic RhythmThe speed at which the progression changes.

Defines the prevailing meter.

Harmonic RhythmThe speed at which the progression changes.

Defines the prevailing meter.

Harmonic RhythmThe speed at which the progression changes.

Defines the prevailing meter.

Harmonic RhythmThe speed at which the progression changes.

Defines the prevailing meter.