Pedal Tone
Definition
A pedal tone is a sustained or repeated note, usually in the bass, while the harmonies above it change. It creates a sense of stability and can add tension or release depending on how it interacts with the changing harmonies.
Related terms
Suspension: A suspension occurs when a note from a previous chord is held over into the next chord, creating dissonance that resolves by moving down to a consonant note.
Ostinato: An ostinato is a repeating musical pattern or phrase that remains consistent throughout a piece of music.
Drone: A drone is similar to a pedal tone, where one or more notes are continuously sounded as other melodies or harmonies move around it.
"Pedal Tone" appears in:
Study guides (2)
AP Music Theory - 5.2 The vi (VI) Chord
AP Music Theory - 5.3 Predominant Seventh Chords
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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.