Accented Passing Tone

Definition

An accented passing tone is a non-chord tone that occurs between two chord tones, typically on a strong beat, adding tension and movement to a melodic line. This embellishing tone enhances the musical phrase by creating a brief dissonance that resolves into a consonant interval, enriching the overall harmonic texture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Accented passing tones usually occur on strong beats, making them stand out in the melody.
2. They can create a sense of forward motion in music, guiding the listener's ear through the melodic line.
3. When an accented passing tone resolves, it typically lands on a chord tone, reinforcing the harmony.
4. The use of accented passing tones can contribute to the emotional expression of a piece by introducing brief moments of tension.
5. Accented passing tones are particularly effective in styles of music that emphasize melodic movement and harmonic progression.

Review Questions

• How does an accented passing tone function within a musical phrase?
  • An accented passing tone functions as a connecting note between two chord tones, usually appearing on a strong beat. This placement creates a moment of tension as it introduces dissonance before resolving back to the consonant chord tone. By doing so, it adds interest and movement to the melody, enhancing the overall musical expression and flow.
• Compare and contrast an accented passing tone with a regular passing tone in terms of their rhythmic placement and impact on melody.
  • An accented passing tone differs from a regular passing tone primarily in its rhythmic placement; it occurs on a strong beat while the regular passing tone typically appears on a weak beat. This difference gives accented passing tones greater emphasis and impact within the melody. While both serve to connect chord tones, the accented version creates a stronger moment of tension and resolution, making it more noticeable in the musical context.
• Evaluate how accented passing tones can influence the emotional character of a musical composition.
  • Accented passing tones can significantly influence the emotional character of a musical composition by introducing moments of tension and release. When these tones are used effectively, they enhance the expressiveness of melodies, guiding listeners through emotional highs and lows. The brief dissonance created by these tones can evoke feelings of anticipation or longing, while their resolution back to consonant tones provides satisfaction and closure, shaping the overall mood of the piece.

Related terms

Passing Tone: A non-chord tone that connects two chord tones by step, occurring on a weak beat.

Neighbor Tone: A non-chord tone that is approached by step from a chord tone and then returns to the original chord tone.

Dissonance:

A combination of notes that creates tension or conflict in music, often needing resolution to consonance.