Non-harmony notes

Appoggiatura

An unprepared dissonance which lands on a strong beat, so feels accented. It resolves by step in either direction, typically giving a ‘sighing’ effect.

Suspension

The note is heard as a harmony note (preparation,) then sustained or repeated so it becomes a dissonance (suspension) with a new chord. It then resolves down by step (resolution.) The dissonance happens on a strong beat, so it feels accented.

Auxiliary note

Also known as a neighbour note. It moves by step from a note of the chord and then return to the original note. It falls on a weak beat. (Unaccented.)

Passing note

A non-harmony note which moves by step from one note of the chord to another. It falls on a relatively weak beat. (Unaccented.)

Accented passing note

A non-harmony note which moves by step from one note of the chord to another, but it falls on a relatively strong beat, so feels accented.

Anticipation

The note pre-empts the next chord before the chord is heard. It falls on a relatively weak beat. (Unaccented.)

Echapeé

Meaning an ‘escaped’ note, it moves by step from a harmony note and then resolves by a leap of a third or more. It falls on a relatively weak beat. (Unaccented.)