Hexachord

Definition

A hexachord is a six-note musical scale that serves as a foundational element in music theory, particularly during the medieval period. This system played a crucial role in the development of Western music notation and pedagogy, allowing composers and musicians to understand and manipulate musical structures. Hexachords were essential for teaching modes and were used in early music compositions, influencing the evolution of harmony and melody.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hexachord is divided into three types: natural, hard, and soft, each defined by the specific intervals between the notes.
2. The concept of hexachords originated from ancient Greek music theory and was adapted during the medieval period for use in Gregorian chant.
3. Hexachords were used to teach singing and music composition through a method called 'solfege', where each note is given a specific syllable.
4. The soft hexachord includes B-flat as its lowest note, while the hard hexachord includes B-natural, which influenced the development of modern scales.
5. Prominent theorists like Guido of Arezzo contributed significantly to hexachord theory, emphasizing its importance in educational practices in music.

Review Questions

• How do the different types of hexachords contribute to the understanding of musical modes?
  • Different types of hexachords—natural, hard, and soft—each present unique interval patterns that correlate with various musical modes. For example, the natural hexachord uses pitches that align closely with the Dorian mode. Understanding these relationships helps musicians grasp how modal scales function within compositions, enabling them to create more complex melodies and harmonies.
• Discuss the historical significance of hexachords in the context of music education during medieval times.
  • Hexachords played a pivotal role in medieval music education by providing a systematic approach to teaching pitch and interval recognition through solmization. This method not only facilitated sight-singing but also helped musicians internalize scales and modes. The emphasis on hexachords established foundational concepts that influenced music theory and pedagogy for centuries, shaping how music was learned and composed.
• Evaluate the impact of hexachord theory on modern Western music practices and its relevance today.
  • Hexachord theory laid essential groundwork for understanding tonal relationships in Western music, influencing the development of scales and harmonics. Its relevance continues today as many concepts derived from hexachords inform modern composition techniques and teaching methods. The legacy of hexachords can be seen in contemporary music theory courses, highlighting their lasting influence on how musicians analyze and create music.

Related terms

Mode: A mode is a type of musical scale coupled with a set of characteristic melodic behaviors, foundational to understanding the structure of Western music.

Tonal System: The tonal system refers to the organization of pitches around a central note (tonic), forming the basis for Western music's harmonic practices.

Solmization: Solmization is a method of assigning syllables to notes of the scale, which aids in sight-singing and understanding musical intervals.