monday Feb 28 Music theory motes

Parallelism in Composition

• Parallelism (also known as planing) is a technique in music where chords move in parallel motion.
• Examples illustrate the usage of modes and the exotic feel they provide to music.

Church Modes

• Music is commonly written in Phrygian or Lydian modes.
• Example given is a piece in G minor containing A flat (Phrygian mode).
• Understanding modes is essential for analyzing chord progressions.

Chord Examples in Phrygian

• G minor chord and major third share interesting harmonies.
• Introduction of D half-diminished seventh and A flat major seventh chords introduces new tonal colors.
• Tendency tones like A flat and raised F create a complex harmony.

Ravel's Influence

• Ravel is noted for his elaborate orchestration styles.
• His music often blends jazz elements with classical influences.
• Examples of his works include pieces in the Dorian and Lydian modes with modal changes influencing chord usage.

Use of Knotting Tones

• Modern compositions often contain upper extensions in chords (9ths, 11ths, 13ths) utilizing freer dissonance.
• Prominent examples of ninth chords that create an exotic feel, reflective of a Spanish influence.

Techniques of Impressionism

• Impressionism includes but is not limited to parallelism and use of church modes.
• Discusses the departure from traditional voice leading practices to allow parallel harmonization.

Practice Exercises

• Analyze a melody harmonized in Phrygian mode: Traditional nursery rhymes like "London Bridge" are re-harmonized using these modal insights.
• Practice writing parallel chords, adhering strictly to quality and interval consistency.