An augmented triad is a type of chord formed by two major thirds stacked on top of each other, resulting in an interval of an augmented fifth between the lowest and highest notes. This unique structure gives the augmented triad a bright and tense quality, often used to create dramatic tension in music. It can function in various harmonic contexts, particularly when tonicizing through secondary leading tone chords.
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The structure of an augmented triad consists of the root note, a major third above the root, and an augmented fifth above the root, such as C, E, and G#.
Augmented triads are commonly used in modulation and can help create tension that resolves to more stable chords.
In classical harmony, an augmented triad often leads to a dominant seventh chord or resolves to a tonic chord for resolution.
Augmented triads can occur in both major and minor keys and can be altered to fit various harmonic contexts.
In jazz and contemporary music, augmented triads are frequently employed for their unique sound and ability to add color to progressions.
Review Questions
How do augmented triads differ from major and diminished triads in terms of structure and sound?
Augmented triads consist of two major thirds stacked upon each other, resulting in an interval of an augmented fifth, which gives them a bright yet tense sound. In contrast, major triads contain a major third and perfect fifth, creating a consonant sound, while diminished triads consist of a minor third and diminished fifth, resulting in a more dissonant and unstable quality. These differences in structure lead to unique emotional qualities in music, influencing how composers use them in various harmonic settings.
Discuss the role of augmented triads in creating tension within musical compositions. How might they function before resolving to more stable chords?
Augmented triads are often utilized to create tension within musical compositions due to their unstable sound. Their construction leads to heightened emotional intensity, making them effective in building suspense before resolving to more stable chords like major or minor triads. This tension is particularly useful during transitions or modulations in music, where the augmented triad can serve as a bridge that heightens anticipation for the following chord resolution.
Evaluate the significance of augmented triads within the context of secondary leading tone chords and tonicization. How do they contribute to harmonic progression?
Augmented triads play a significant role in the context of secondary leading tone chords by providing a rich harmonic color that enhances tonicization processes. When built on the leading tone of another key, augmented triads can create strong pull towards the tonic by intensifying harmonic movement. This contributes to harmonic progression by allowing composers to explore complex tonal relationships, thus enriching the overall musical texture and providing listeners with captivating shifts in tension and resolution.
A triad made up of a root, minor third, and diminished fifth, producing a tense and unstable sound often used for resolution.
Secondary leading tone chord: A chord built on the leading tone of a scale degree other than the tonic, often functioning as a dominant to create temporary tonicization.