Music

Chord

Three or more notes sounding simultaneously

Triad

a type of chord made up of exactly 3 pitches

Root

The bottom note of the triad

Root Position Triads

two 3rds stacked on top of eachother.

The bottom note is called the root

The middle note is called the 3rd

The top note is called the 5th

The interval between the root and the top note is some type of 5th

How to write a Triad:

Write the root of the triad (note it’s named after)

Add the 5th of the triad-
For a major or minor triad: Perfect 5th
For an augmented triad: augmented 5th
For a diminished triad: Diminished 5th

Dominant 7th Chord

Made up of 4 different pitches: a major triad plus an additional minor third on top, representing a minor 7th above the root.

Can be built on any scale degree, but most commonly found on 2(D) ,5(G) and 7 (B)

The Dominant 7th Chord

Can refer to the 7th chord built on the dominant of a particular key

Can also refer to an entire category of chords- the Major Minor seventh (mm7) which is built on any root.

Inverted Chord

A chord that has something other than the root in the bass

Lead Sheet

a simplified score that only contains the vocal melody, lyrics and chord symbols

SATB

Parts move in nearly identical rythym (homophonic)
Melody is usually in the soprano (highest voice)
The bass (lowest voice) provides the harmonic foundation
Middle voices (alto and tenor) fill in the harmonies

Keyboard style

Parts move in nearly identical rythym (homophonic)
Three notes in the right hand: fit within an octave
One note in the left hand: determines the triad’s position

The intro

The first things you hear: sets the mood Establishes basic elements like key, tempo, rhythmic figures Can be instrumental, vocal (sung or spoken), and/or contain atmospheric sounds

The Verse

Appears multiple times, each time with similar music but different text. Tells the story Music might seem less interesting so that the lyrics can take precedence

The Chorus

Appears multiple times, always with identical music and text Musical climax of the song; often louder and fuller Lyrics often include the song’s title Often contains the hook (the catchiest part of the song)

The Prechorus and Postchorus

Prechorus: transition or build-up into the Chorus Postchorus: transition from the Chorus to another verse

The Bridge

A contrasting section with its own music and lyrics Transitional, used to prepare for the return of sections heard earlier (e.g. the chorus) May function like another verse or act as a “turning point” May contain the hook (the catchiest part of the song)

The Outro

Signals that the song is ending Could be a repeat of the intro, repeat/fade of the chorus, or something else that leads to the end