Anticipations

Definition

Anticipations are non-harmonic tones that occur just before a chord change, where a note from the upcoming chord is played early, creating a moment of tension before resolving into the harmony. This technique enriches melodic and harmonic progression, as it prepares the listener for the harmonic shift while adding a sense of forward motion. Anticipations are often found in melodic lines that are harmonized in a way that emphasizes their role in leading into subsequent chords.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anticipations serve to create a sense of expectation, making them particularly effective in building momentum within a piece of music.
2. When using anticipations, it's essential to ensure that they resolve smoothly into the following chord to maintain harmonic coherence.
3. They are often used in conjunction with other non-harmonic tones, such as suspensions or passing tones, to create more complex textures.
4. In melodic harmonization, anticipations can help clarify the harmonic rhythm and establish clearer connections between melodies and chords.
5. While typically placed on strong beats, anticipations can also appear on weak beats for added subtlety and interest.

Review Questions

• How do anticipations function within melodic lines to prepare listeners for harmonic changes?
  • Anticipations function as non-harmonic tones that precede a chord change by introducing notes from the upcoming chord. This technique creates tension and forward motion in the music, as listeners sense the impending resolution. By carefully placing these anticipations within melodic lines, composers enhance the listener's experience and strengthen the relationship between melody and harmony.
• In what ways can anticipations be effectively combined with other non-harmonic tones in a musical composition?
  • Anticipations can be effectively combined with other non-harmonic tones like suspensions and passing tones to create richer textures in music. For example, using an anticipation followed by a suspension can heighten tension and lead to a satisfying resolution. By layering these techniques, composers can craft intricate melodic lines that engage listeners through varied emotional dynamics and harmonic interest.
• Evaluate the impact of anticipations on the overall structure and emotional expression of a musical piece.
  • Anticipations significantly impact both the structure and emotional expression of a musical piece by shaping how listeners perceive harmonic progressions. They build anticipation for forthcoming chords, which can create moments of tension or excitement, influencing how music feels overall. When used thoughtfully throughout a composition, anticipations enhance narrative flow and help convey different emotions, making them an essential tool for composers seeking to connect deeply with their audience.

Related terms

Non-harmonic tones: Notes that do not belong to the underlying harmony but add color and tension to the musical line.

Suspensions: A type of non-harmonic tone where a note is held over from the previous chord, creating dissonance before resolving down to a consonant tone.

Appoggiatura: A non-harmonic tone that is approached by leap and resolved by step, adding expressive tension within a melody.