Classical harmony

Definition

Classical harmony refers to the system of musical organization and progression established during the Classical period, roughly spanning from 1750 to 1820. It is characterized by the use of diatonic scales, functional chords, and specific rules governing chord progressions, which create a sense of tension and resolution within music. This framework allows composers to craft cohesive pieces that evoke emotional responses through carefully structured harmonic movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Classical harmony emphasizes the use of functional chords, meaning each chord serves a purpose within a progression, creating a predictable flow.
2. Common chord progressions, such as I-IV-V-I, are foundational in classical harmony, providing structure and coherence to compositions.
3. Modulation, or changing keys within a piece, is an important technique used in classical harmony to enhance musical expression and maintain listener interest.
4. The principle of voice leading is crucial in classical harmony; it involves smoothly connecting chords while minimizing the distance between individual notes.
5. Cadences play a vital role in classical harmony by signaling the end of phrases and creating expectations for musical resolution.

Review Questions

• How does the use of functional harmony impact the structure of compositions during the Classical period?
  • Functional harmony greatly influences the structure of Classical period compositions by assigning specific roles to chords within progressions. This allows composers to create predictable patterns that guide listeners through a piece. For instance, the tonic serves as a home base, while dominant chords build tension that resolves back to the tonic, establishing a clear emotional journey.
• In what ways do diatonic scales contribute to the establishment of classical harmony?
  • Diatonic scales form the foundation of classical harmony by providing a set of notes that define the tonal framework of a piece. These scales restrict chords to those built from their respective notes, ensuring coherence in harmonic progressions. As composers utilize diatonic harmonies, they create music that feels organized and familiar to listeners while still allowing for creative exploration through modulation and other techniques.
• Evaluate how cadences function within classical harmony to create tension and resolution in music.
  • Cadences serve as essential markers in classical harmony that generate tension and resolution throughout musical works. By creating moments of pause or closure at key points, cadences guide listener expectations and enhance emotional impact. The variety of cadences—such as perfect authentic or deceptive—enables composers to manipulate how tension is built and resolved, resulting in a more engaging listening experience that aligns with classical harmonic principles.

Related terms

Diatonic Scale: A seven-note scale that includes five whole steps and two half steps, forming the basis of Western music's major and minor scales.

Functional Harmony: A system in which chords are assigned specific roles or functions within a progression, primarily involving tonic, dominant, and subdominant relationships.

Cadence: A melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of resolution or pause in music, often marking the end of a phrase or section.