Suspension

Definition

A suspension is a type of non-chord tone that occurs when a note from a previous chord is held over into the next chord, creating a momentary dissonance before resolving to a consonant tone. This technique adds tension and emotional depth to music, as the dissonance created by the suspension begs for resolution. It is commonly used in various styles of music to enhance melodic lines and harmonic progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Suspensions are typically labeled according to their position in relation to the chord, such as 4-3 suspension or 7-6 suspension, indicating the intervals involved.
2. The suspended note is held over from the previous chord and usually resolves downwards by step to a note in the next chord.
3. Suspensions are often found in both classical and contemporary music and can be utilized in melodies, harmonies, and counterpoint.
4. The suspension creates a moment of tension that is crucial for maintaining listener interest and emotional engagement in the piece.
5. Common places for suspensions include strong beats or points of harmonic change, enhancing the impact of the musical progression.

Review Questions

• How does a suspension function within a musical context, and what role does it play in creating tension?
  • A suspension functions as a non-chord tone that holds over a note from a previous chord into the next chord, creating dissonance. This dissonance generates tension as it temporarily clashes with the new harmony. The tension is resolved when the suspended note moves down by step to a consonant note in the following chord, enhancing the emotional depth and interest of the music.
• Compare and contrast suspensions with other types of non-chord tones like passing tones and neighbor tones.
  • Suspensions differ from passing tones and neighbor tones in their approach and resolution. While passing tones connect two chords by filling in the gaps between them, neighbor tones move away from a chord tone before returning. Suspensions specifically involve holding over a note from the previous chord, leading to dissonance before resolving. This unique characteristic of suspensions allows them to create stronger moments of tension compared to other non-chord tones.
• Evaluate how effective use of suspensions can impact the overall emotional quality of a musical composition.
  • Effective use of suspensions significantly enhances the emotional quality of a composition by introducing moments of tension that engage listeners more deeply. When composers skillfully place suspensions at pivotal points in their music, it builds anticipation for resolution, creating dramatic contrasts between harmony and dissonance. This not only adds complexity but also enriches the listener's experience, making moments of resolution more satisfying and impactful within the musical narrative.

Related terms

non-chord tones: Notes that do not belong to the underlying chord, often used to create tension or embellish melodies.

resolution: The process by which a dissonant note or chord moves to a consonant one, typically providing a sense of closure or satisfaction in music.

appoggiatura: A type of non-chord tone that is approached by leap and resolves by step, creating an expressive tension before its resolution.