Harmony

Definition

Harmony refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to produce a pleasing sound. It adds depth and richness to music, enhancing the emotional and expressive qualities of a piece. In various musical contexts, harmony serves as a foundation for structure, guiding listeners through melodies while influencing the overall mood and atmosphere.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Early polyphony developed harmony by layering melodies, creating complex textures that were significant in the evolution of Western music.
2. In the Lied tradition, harmony often supports the emotional narrative of the text, using chords to reflect feelings and enhance storytelling.
3. The text-music relationship relies on harmony to complement lyrical content, where harmonic choices can underscore dramatic moments or shifts in emotion.
4. The emergence of basso continuo during the Baroque period marked a significant shift in harmony, where a continuous bass line provided a harmonic foundation for melodies.
5. Harmony has evolved significantly over time, with the transition from simple triads in earlier music to more complex chords and progressions in later styles.

Review Questions

• How did early polyphony contribute to the development of harmony in Western music?
  • Early polyphony significantly advanced the development of harmony by layering multiple independent melodies. This layering created complex textures that allowed composers to explore harmonization techniques, such as parallel and contrary motion. As musicians experimented with these techniques, they laid the groundwork for richer harmonic structures that became fundamental in later musical forms.
• Discuss how harmony plays a crucial role in shaping the text-music relationship in Lieder.
  • In Lieder, harmony is essential for shaping the text-music relationship by providing emotional depth to the lyrics. Composers use specific harmonic progressions to mirror the sentiments expressed in the text, employing consonance and dissonance to evoke feelings such as longing or joy. This interplay between words and music creates a profound connection that enhances the listener's experience.
• Evaluate how the emergence of basso continuo influenced harmonic practices in Baroque music.
  • The emergence of basso continuo revolutionized harmonic practices during the Baroque period by establishing a solid foundation for melodic lines. Composers began to use this practice to create richer harmonies and more intricate musical textures. The continuous bass line allowed for greater freedom in harmonic experimentation, leading to innovative chord progressions and new forms of expression that defined the era's music.

Related terms

Chord: A chord is a group of notes, typically three or more, played together to create harmony.

Dissonance: Dissonance is a combination of notes that clash or create tension, often resolved by consonance.

Counterpoint: Counterpoint is the relationship between voices that are interdependent in harmony but independent in rhythm and melody.