Altered chords in progressions

Definition

Altered chords in progressions are chords that have been modified by changing one or more of their notes, typically involving alterations to the fifth or ninth degrees. These alterations create tension and dissonance, adding color and interest to musical compositions. They are often used to enhance harmonic movement and resolution within a chord progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Altered chords often appear in jazz and contemporary music styles, where they enhance harmonic complexity.
2. Common alterations include raised or lowered fifths and ninths, which can create distinctive sonic qualities.
3. These chords typically function as dominant chords, leading to resolutions that provide a satisfying harmonic progression.
4. Altered chords can be notated with symbols such as '7#9' or '7b5', indicating the specific modifications made to the base chord.
5. Using altered chords effectively requires an understanding of voice leading and how these tensions resolve into more stable harmonies.

Review Questions

• How do altered chords contribute to creating tension in musical progressions?
  • Altered chords contribute to creating tension in musical progressions by introducing dissonance through modifications like raised or lowered notes. This dissonance heightens the listener's anticipation for resolution, often leading into more stable chords. The tension created by altered chords serves as a crucial element in maintaining interest and emotional depth within a piece of music.
• Compare the use of altered chords in jazz versus classical music, highlighting key differences in their application.
  • In jazz, altered chords are frequently employed to enhance improvisation and add color to standard chord progressions, allowing musicians greater freedom of expression. In contrast, classical music tends to use altered chords more sparingly, focusing instead on traditional harmonic structures. This difference in application highlights jazz's emphasis on spontaneity and innovation compared to classical music's structured approach.
• Evaluate the role of altered chords in creating dynamic harmonic movement within a composition, considering their impact on listener engagement.
  • Altered chords play a vital role in creating dynamic harmonic movement by introducing unexpected tensions that disrupt the predictability of standard progressions. This unpredictability captivates listeners, drawing them into the narrative of the music as they anticipate resolutions. By skillfully incorporating altered chords, composers can enhance emotional responses and maintain engagement throughout their compositions, making the listening experience more compelling and immersive.

Related terms

Diminished chord: A chord consisting of a root note, a minor third, and a diminished fifth, often used as a passing chord in progressions.

Dominant seventh chord: A chord formed by a major triad plus a minor seventh, commonly used to create tension that resolves to tonic chords.

Tension and release: A fundamental concept in music where tension is created through dissonance and is resolved by consonance, often utilized in chord progressions.