Harmony

Definition

Harmony refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to create a pleasing sound. In jazz, harmony is crucial as it supports the melody and provides depth, contributing to the overall emotional impact of a piece. This musical element also draws heavily from European traditions, influencing jazz structures and chord progressions, which blend with African American musical forms to create a unique sound.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jazz harmony often utilizes extended chords such as 7ths, 9ths, and 13ths, which provide richer textures than basic triads.
2. The harmonic language in jazz has roots in classical European music, which introduced concepts like modulation and chromaticism.
3. Improvisation in jazz frequently involves altering or reinterpreting the harmonic structure, allowing musicians to express creativity while adhering to the underlying chord changes.
4. The use of substitutions and alterations in jazz harmony can create unexpected emotional effects and surprise listeners.
5. Jazz musicians often employ techniques like voice leading, where individual notes within chords move smoothly from one chord to the next, enhancing the overall flow of the music.

Review Questions

• How does harmony in jazz differ from classical harmony, and what are its distinctive features?
  • Harmony in jazz differs from classical harmony primarily in its use of extended chords and complex chord progressions. While classical music often adheres to strict rules regarding harmonic movement and resolutions, jazz embraces flexibility and improvisation. Jazz musicians may employ alterations and substitutions that deviate from traditional harmonic expectations, allowing for greater emotional expression and creativity. This approach leads to a richer harmonic palette that characterizes the unique sound of jazz.
• Discuss the role of European musical elements in shaping jazz harmony and its impact on the genre's evolution.
  • European musical elements significantly shaped jazz harmony through the incorporation of complex chord structures, modulations, and voice leading techniques. These influences allowed jazz musicians to create innovative harmonic progressions that set the foundation for modern jazz styles. The blending of European harmonic practices with African American musical traditions resulted in a distinct sound characterized by syncopation, call-and-response patterns, and improvisation. This synthesis has had a lasting impact on jazz, making it a constantly evolving genre that embraces new influences while respecting its roots.
• Evaluate the significance of harmony in jazz improvisation and its contribution to overall performance dynamics.
  • Harmony plays a crucial role in jazz improvisation by providing a framework for musicians to navigate while also offering freedom for creative expression. The harmonic structure serves as a guide, allowing improvisers to build melodic lines that respond to the underlying chords. This interplay creates dynamic interactions among performers, fostering spontaneous collaboration and enhancing the overall musical experience. As musicians interpret or alter harmonic elements during a performance, they contribute to a unique rendition of the piece that reflects their individual styles and influences, showcasing the vibrant nature of jazz as an art form.

Related terms

Chord: A chord is a group of notes played together, forming the basis of harmony in music.

Progression: A progression is a sequence of chords that leads from one chord to another, creating movement and tension in music.

Counterpoint:

Counterpoint is the relationship between two or more melodic lines that are independent yet harmonically related.