Neighbor tone

Definition

A neighbor tone is a type of non-chord tone that is approached by a step from a chord tone and then resolves back to the original chord tone. This creates a momentary embellishment, adding melodic interest and richness to the music. Neighbor tones can occur in both ascending and descending motion, providing composers and performers with a way to enhance melodic lines while maintaining the harmonic structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neighbor tones can be classified as either upper or lower neighbor tones, depending on whether they move up or down from the chord tone.
2. They are often used in melodies to create variety and maintain listener interest without altering the harmonic progression.
3. In traditional music notation, neighbor tones are typically notated with a small notehead or tied note to indicate their embellishing nature.
4. The use of neighbor tones can contribute to the expressiveness of a piece, allowing for emotional nuance in melodic phrases.
5. Neighbor tones can appear in various musical genres, from classical to contemporary, showcasing their versatility as an expressive tool.

Review Questions

• How do neighbor tones function within a melody, and what role do they play in relation to chord tones?
  • Neighbor tones function as embellishments within a melody by providing additional notes that temporarily deviate from the main chord tones. They are approached by a step from a chord tone and then resolve back to that same chord tone. This creates movement and adds interest to the melody while still anchoring it within the harmonic structure, allowing for greater expressiveness in musical phrases.
• Compare and contrast neighbor tones with passing tones, highlighting their unique characteristics and uses in music.
  • While both neighbor tones and passing tones are types of non-chord tones used to embellish melodies, they have distinct functions. Neighbor tones are approached by step from a chord tone and resolve back to that same chord tone, creating a sense of return. In contrast, passing tones connect two chord tones by step, filling in the space between them. This difference in approach and resolution gives each type of non-chord tone its own unique role in musical composition.
• Evaluate the impact of neighbor tones on the overall expressiveness of a musical piece, considering their use across different styles and genres.
  • Neighbor tones significantly enhance the expressiveness of a musical piece by adding complexity and emotional nuance to melodies. Their ability to create tension before resolving back to chord tones allows composers to convey various moods and feelings. Across different styles and genres, from classical compositions to modern pop songs, neighbor tones serve as an important tool for musicians seeking to enrich their melodies and engage listeners through varied musical expression.

Related terms

Non-chord tones: Notes that are not part of the underlying chord but create tension and release within a musical passage.

Passing tone: A non-chord tone that connects two chord tones by step, creating a smooth melodic line.

Appoggiatura: A non-chord tone that is approached by leap and resolves to a chord tone, typically creating a strong sense of tension.