Augmented

Definition

In music, 'augmented' refers to an interval that is one half-step larger than a major interval or perfect interval. This term can also apply to chords, specifically an augmented triad, which consists of a root, a major third, and an augmented fifth. Understanding this concept is essential for recognizing intervals, building chords, and analyzing harmony within compositions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An augmented interval can be found in both melodic and harmonic contexts, and it adds tension that often resolves to more stable intervals.
2. An augmented triad consists of a root note, a major third above the root, and an augmented fifth above the root, creating a unique sound distinct from major and minor triads.
3. When notated, an augmented interval is typically represented with a plus sign (+) or the word 'aug.' for clarity in musical scores.
4. Augmented intervals can be found in various musical genres and styles, contributing to the complexity and richness of harmony.
5. In functional harmony, augmented chords often lead to dominant chords or serve as passing chords, enhancing movement within progressions.

Review Questions

• How does an augmented interval differ from major and perfect intervals, and what impact does this difference have on music composition?
  • An augmented interval is larger than both major and perfect intervals by one half-step. This distinction creates a sense of tension and anticipation in music composition. Composers often use augmented intervals to build suspense or lead into resolutions with more consonant sounds. By understanding these differences, musicians can effectively utilize augmented intervals to enhance the emotional impact of their compositions.
• Discuss the role of augmented triads in harmonic progression and how they function within different musical contexts.
  • Augmented triads serve as unique chords that introduce tension in harmonic progressions. They are often used as passing chords that lead smoothly into dominant or tonic chords. In various musical contexts, such as jazz or contemporary styles, augmented triads can create unexpected harmonic shifts that enrich the overall sound palette. Their ability to resolve into stable chords makes them valuable tools for composers and arrangers.
• Evaluate the significance of understanding augmented intervals and chords in terms of developing advanced musicianship skills.
  • Understanding augmented intervals and chords is vital for developing advanced musicianship skills because it allows musicians to navigate complex harmonic structures and make informed compositional choices. Recognizing how augmented elements function within tonal frameworks enables musicians to create dynamic pieces that effectively convey emotion. Moreover, this knowledge aids in improvisation and arrangement, helping musicians expand their creative horizons and elevate their overall musicianship.

Related terms

Major Interval: A musical interval that spans four half steps or two whole tones, considered one of the basic building blocks in Western music theory.

Perfect Interval: An interval characterized by its consonance and stability, consisting of unison, fourth, fifth, or octave relationships that have a specific number of half steps.

Diminished: An interval that is one half-step smaller than a minor interval or perfect interval, often creating a tense or dissonant sound.