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Upper Neighbor Tone

Definition

An upper neighbor tone refers to an embellishing note that is one step higher than the main note. It is played quickly before returning to the main note.

Related terms

Lower Neighbor Tone: Similar to an upper neighbor tone, but instead of being one step higher, it is one step lower than the main note.

Passing Tone: A passing tone occurs when there's an embellishing note between two main notes that are either above or below it. It creates smooth melodic motion.

Suspension: A suspension happens when a note from one chord is held over into the next chord while other voices move around it. It creates tension and resolves to a consonant note.

"Upper Neighbor Tone" appears in:

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.