Iii-vi Progression

Definition

The iii-vi progression is a common harmonic movement in tonal music, where the iii chord (the mediant) resolves to the vi chord (the submediant). This progression often creates a smooth and pleasant transition between chords, emphasizing the connection between the mediant and submediant harmonies. It's frequently used in various musical styles to add color and depth to chord progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a key of C major, the iii chord is E minor (E-G-B) and the vi chord is A minor (A-C-E).
2. The iii-vi progression often serves as a pivot point in modulations, facilitating smoother transitions to other keys.
3. This progression can be enhanced with embellishing tones like passing tones or neighbor tones, which add melodic interest.
4. In popular music, the iii-vi progression is often found in verse sections, helping to establish a distinct harmonic atmosphere.
5. The emotional quality of the iii-vi progression can evoke feelings of longing or introspection, making it effective in ballads.

Review Questions

• How does the iii-vi progression function in terms of voice leading within a musical context?
  • The iii-vi progression is significant in voice leading because it provides a smooth transition between chords. The individual voices can move by step, which is generally more pleasing to the ear. For example, when moving from E minor to A minor, the notes G and B from the E minor chord can resolve smoothly into A and C in the A minor chord. This creates a cohesive flow that enhances the overall harmonic structure.
• Analyze how embellishing tones can enhance the emotional effect of the iii-vi progression in a piece of music.
  • Embellishing tones like passing tones or neighbor tones can significantly enhance the emotional impact of the iii-vi progression by adding melodic complexity and interest. For instance, incorporating a passing tone between the notes of the iii and vi chords can create tension that resolves nicely when reaching the target chord. This technique not only enriches the harmonic texture but also deepens the listener's emotional engagement with the music.
• Evaluate the role of the iii-vi progression in different musical genres and its effectiveness as a compositional tool.
  • The iii-vi progression serves as an essential compositional tool across various musical genres due to its versatility and emotional resonance. In classical music, it often appears as part of larger harmonic sequences that create tension and resolution. In pop music, it frequently appears in verses to establish mood before transitioning into more energetic sections. Its ability to evoke feelings of longing and introspection makes it effective for creating memorable melodies and lyrical themes, demonstrating its significance across styles.

Related terms

Mediant Chord:

The chord built on the third scale degree of a key, typically minor in a major key and major in a minor key.

Submediant Chord: The chord built on the sixth scale degree of a key, usually minor in a major key and major in a minor key.

Voice Leading:

The practice of moving from one chord to another while maintaining smooth transitions between individual melodic lines or voices.