Thirds

Definition

Thirds refer to a specific interval in music that encompasses three diatonic scale degrees, creating a harmonious relationship between notes. In the context of medieval music, this interval was essential for developing harmony and creating chords, particularly in polyphonic compositions where multiple melodic lines interact. Understanding thirds helps to grasp the evolution of musical practices and the significance of harmonic structures in historical contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In medieval music, thirds were often used to build triads, which became foundational for later harmony.
2. The interval of a third can be major or minor, with major thirds consisting of four semitones and minor thirds consisting of three semitones.
3. The understanding and use of thirds evolved throughout the medieval period, reflecting changes in musical style and composition techniques.
4. The Old Hall Manuscript, a significant collection from the early 15th century, showcases numerous examples of polyphony that utilize thirds effectively.
5. During the medieval era, thirds were sometimes viewed with skepticism by theorists who preferred simpler intervals; however, their acceptance grew as composers explored richer textures.

Review Questions

• How did the use of thirds influence the development of polyphonic music in the medieval era?
  • The use of thirds significantly influenced the development of polyphonic music by allowing composers to create richer harmonic textures. This interval provided a framework for building triads, which became central to developing harmony. As more composers began to experiment with combining multiple melodic lines, the use of thirds became essential in achieving a more sophisticated sound that characterized medieval polyphony.
• Discuss the evolution of the perception of thirds among music theorists during the medieval period.
  • During the medieval period, thirds were initially met with skepticism by some music theorists who favored simpler intervals such as perfect fifths. As musical styles evolved and composers began incorporating more complex harmonic structures into their work, perceptions shifted. By the end of the medieval era, thirds gained broader acceptance as composers recognized their importance in enriching musical textures and expanding emotional expression in their compositions.
• Evaluate the significance of thirds in the Old Hall Manuscript and how they reflect broader trends in medieval music.
  • The Old Hall Manuscript is crucial in understanding the role of thirds in medieval music as it contains numerous works that effectively utilize this interval within polyphonic settings. The prevalence of thirds in these compositions reflects broader trends towards increased harmonic complexity during this period. This shift indicates a growing acceptance and exploration of rich textures in music that would ultimately pave the way for developments in Renaissance music and beyond.

Related terms

Diatonic Scale: A seven-note scale that comprises five whole steps and two half steps, forming the basis of Western music theory.

Polyphony:

A texture in music consisting of two or more independent melodic lines played simultaneously, common in medieval and Renaissance compositions.

Harmony: The combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to produce a pleasing sound, often built on intervals like thirds.