Developing chord progressions
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use harmonic devices to develop a chord progression.
Key learning points
- Changing the harmonic rhythm can add interest to a composition. It can dramatically alter the mood in a piece.
- Harmonic devices such as pedal notes and drones are useful for building harmonic tension and adding colour.
- By adding extensions to chords, composers can enhance the expressive qualities of chord sequences.
Keywords
Harmonic rhythm - Harmonic rhythm is how often the chords change.
Pedal note - A pedal note is a bass note that stays the same while chords change above it.
Drone - A drone is a long, sustained sound. Often it is low pitched and consists of two notes together - the tonic and dominant.
Extended chord - An extended chord is a chord that includes more than three different notes.
Common misconception
A pedal note is just a long, low note.
A pedal note is a consistent pitch usually in the bass whilst the chords change. Encourage pupils to listen to and experiment with the pitch they choose for a pedal to hear the effect it has on the harmony.
Teacher tip
Adding a pedal is a very effective way for pupils to change the harmony of their music particularly when trying to show development. Give examples of different pedals (including in rhythm and octave) to avoid pupils assuming it is just adding a long, low note to their musical idea.
Equipment
A keyboard (or other suitable instrument) or DAW/notation software
Licence
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