Consequent

Definition

In music, a consequent refers to the second part of a musical phrase that typically follows an antecedent. It serves to complete the musical thought, often by providing resolution and closure. The consequent is integral to melodic construction and development as it helps create a sense of balance and coherence within a piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The consequent usually mirrors or complements the antecedent in structure and length, creating symmetry in the musical phrase.
2. Consequents can vary in their melodic content, sometimes developing themes introduced in the antecedent to add interest.
3. In classical music, consequents often resolve on strong beats, providing a sense of closure and stability to the melody.
4. The relationship between antecedent and consequent can establish musical tension and release, making the consequent essential for emotional impact.
5. Different styles of music may interpret the function of the consequent uniquely, affecting how melodies are crafted and developed.

Review Questions

• How does the consequent relate to the antecedent in terms of structure and emotional impact within a melody?
  • The consequent follows the antecedent and usually mirrors its structure, which creates balance in the phrase. This relationship is crucial for emotional impact; the antecedent often presents a musical question, while the consequent provides an answer or resolution. This tension and release enhance the listener's experience by guiding their expectations and feelings throughout the melody.
• Discuss how the use of consequents contributes to the overall coherence of a musical piece.
  • Consequents play a vital role in creating coherence within a musical piece by completing musical ideas presented by antecedents. By ensuring that each phrase has both an antecedent and consequent, composers create clear connections between different sections of music. This helps listeners follow the narrative of the piece, making it easier for them to engage with and appreciate the overall structure.
• Evaluate how variations in the use of consequents can affect the style and expressiveness of different genres of music.
  • Variations in how consequents are crafted can greatly influence both style and expressiveness across different music genres. For instance, in classical music, consequents may adhere closely to traditional forms and resolutions, while in jazz, they might incorporate improvisation that adds unpredictability. This flexibility allows composers and musicians to convey diverse emotions and connect with audiences in unique ways, demonstrating how an understanding of consequents can enhance creative expression.

Related terms

antecedent: The antecedent is the first part of a musical phrase that sets up a musical idea, often posing a question that the consequent then answers.

phrase: A phrase in music is a complete musical thought or idea, which can be made up of an antecedent and a consequent.

cadence: A cadence is a melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of resolution at the end of a phrase, often marking the conclusion of a musical idea.