Functional harmony
Definition
Functional harmony refers to how chords function within a key or tonal center. It focuses on understanding how chords create tension and resolution, and how they contribute to the overall structure and emotional impact of a piece.
Analogy
Imagine functional harmony as building blocks for constructing sentences. Each chord acts as a word with its own meaning, but when combined together in specific ways (like subject-verb-object), they create meaningful phrases and convey emotions effectively.
Related terms
Tonic: The tonic is the central pitch or chord that establishes the key or tonal center in functional harmony.
Subdominant function: Subdominant function refers to chords that create stability and prepare for tension by leading towards dominant chords.
Mediant function: Mediant function describes chords that provide contrast and color within functional harmony by adding variety and unexpected twists.
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